I have a 73 t-top coupe that had the 4 speed removed for an automatic. Go figure. It's got to have the right one, but I don't know what the correct trans for it.
Here's what I've been told is correct for this car:
70-74 started the fine spline trans in the Corvette. Also it should have the following: 3925661 case, 3857584 tail, 28/32 splines. I'm not sure about the side cover but 3952648 is one I've seen on one trans at Carlisle. I have no idea if these numbers are 100% right, but they must be somewhat close.
Can someone get me going in the right direction? Thanks!!!

 

I'm a beginner at this, but I just got the book: "Corvette Restoration Guide 1968-1982", and was crawling around a '73 coupe just today, checking numbers. I will be visiting it again tomorrow, and can get all the numbers I can see off the trans if you want.

The book says it should have the part number on a steel tag attached to a bolt on the side cover, but the tag on this car is missing.

There are numbers on the right side like the ones you are talking about, but the book doesn't say what they should be. They do explain this stamp on the right side, low, towards the rear.
"PEA10A" This translated to P=Muncie, 3=73 model, A=January, 10=10th (of January), A=M-20 (wide ratio with 2.52:1 first gear ratio)

Otherwise, the car seems to be numbers matching on the main parts:
- motor (454, January '73, CWM=LS-4 w/ 4spd (non California), same VIN on block and car body.
- heads, intake and exhaust manifolds all OK.
- Trans: M-20 (wide ratio)
- Diff: AW=3.08:1 Positraction
- carb? numbers are correct, but it says it's for a California emissions car?
- AC compressor
- fan and fan clutch

Not matching: alternator, master cylinder, power steering pump, coil, water pump, starter.

I'm not the expert you want, but I can tell you what I see on this car.
Jim

 

Here's all the part numbers. Source: "Corvette By The Numbers"

Gary

 

Just a bit of advice,maybe save you a lot of money and time. The original trans had your VIN stamped in it. If it's gone, then it's gone and so is any original (valued) trans. A correct coded one is still not the original one. I've seen guys kill themselves over this. If you want a 4 or 5 spd get a new or correctly rebuilt one and enjoy the car. Sometimes having the correct trans doesn't help either, I have the original ST10 case with our matching numbers L82 but the case is cracked and all done. It's a nice paper weight though.

In fact check with DIP51, he has an original 71 vette Muncie he wanted to sell a few weeks ago. He may still have it and I can tell you he is honest you will get a straight answer from him.

 

Here's dip51's ad, although I think his is sold

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-p...cessories.html

Here's mine that also has a muncie for sale

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/c3-p...ew-others.html

 

Thanks guys for the replies! I need all the help I can get! I know Chevelles to a "T" but I'm learning about my 73 Vette more every day.
A special thanks to Gary for the Corvette by the Numbers info- gotta get that book ASAP.

Here's my next question: Tail housing- what's the difference between the #3957584 tailhousing used from 65 until 71, and the correct one for the '73 #3978764? Anyone know?

I'm thinking it might be the bolt pattern for the shifter? Maybe the trans mount to the crossmember? If I found a trans with the 661 case, and the earlier tailhousing, can it be used in my 73? Would the problem be solved by using an earlier shifter plate and linkages from an earlier trans?

By the way, I'm looking for the right trans- non-concourse correct, non-numbers matching. I do want a fine spline so I can use the driveshaft I have for it. Thanks again guys!!