Questions about 1973 trans in 1957 bug

[J_ROD]

Hey guys just looking for some info on a project I’m starting. I searched but haven’t found the answers I’m looking for even though I know it’s out there. I’m starting a restomod with a mostly original 1957 oval. I don’t plan on keeping the engine that’s in it and have a 1973 with a 1600 and what looks like a rebuilt trans that I would like to put it in the 57. What all would I need to switch out for this swap? I’m keeping the original numbers matching pan and wide fives if that makes a difference? Just wondering what all I need to pull of the 73 before I get rid of it? I don’t know the condition of the trans that’s in the 57 but assume it’s not as good as the 73. I appreciate any insight or links to similar questions.

[TDCTDI]

You are in for a ton of cutting, fabrication, & welding. The Oval has a swing axle transmission, the later car has what they call “double jointed” suspension. It is a common swap, especially for off-road use or those wanting to lower their cars excessively.

You will need the transmission, axles, trailing arms, spring plates & retainers, and torsion bars. This will also cause you to have a 4 lug bolt pattern on the rear. You will need to purchase IRS conversion brackets, the bracket location tool, & transmission mount adapter.
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[J_ROD]

Thanks for the reply. Sounds like I should sell the 73 and find a different engine or pull just the engine and keep my trans.

[ZENVWDRIVER]

you ever consider putting the '57 body on the '73 pan?

I once bought a 1973 body on a 1957 pan - got it for $100 and took the '73 body off and junked it... sold the pan and still have the 36 horse.
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[Mark Evans]

Seems a shame with a mostly original car to start separating it. I would hang on to the engine (if correct). Maybe find another shell to work with? Someone on here would probably love to have a start like that.
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'63 Ragtop

[J_ROD]

It’s not the original engine otherwise I would consider rebuilding it. I plan on keeping the pan and body together but upgrading brakes suspension and engine to make it a better driver since it’s technically going to be the wife’s VW. My 1960 bus I’m keeping 100% stock which is why it taking a long time to get anything done. I now realize how hard a restoration is compared to a restomod...

[Rome]

TDC, hold on. OP is asking to only replace the transmission, not the entire rear suspension. If his '73 has a single side cover (SSC) IRS transmission, I don't know if it can be converted to swingaxle. A wise and meticulous VW friend in NJ (ZEN knows him- George F) told me about 25 years ago that it is not difficult to convert an early IRS transmission (with both removable side covers) to swingaxle. If this conversion can also be done on a SSC, I don't know what nose cone would be needed to adapt to the '57's pan.

But- a '73 trans would work well with the '73 1600 engine.

OP- it might be easier to find a good used '67 swingaxle transmission and adapt that to your '57, using the '57's narrow track axles. The '67 has a final drive ratio which would also work well with the 1600 engine.

[Mark Evans]

That is the trans setup in my '55. Dual side plate IRS with swing axles installed. Also uses the bus nose cone, slipped right in!
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'63 Ragtop