Can you convert a 359 to an automatic transmission?

Discussion in 'Peterbilt Forum' started by Kendallware15460, Jan 14, 2024.

  1. Kendallware15460

    Kendallware15460 Bobtail Member

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    Can you convert a Peterbilt 359 to a automated transmission Would like to hear if anybody's done it
     
    Last edited: Jan 15, 2024
  2. Oxbow

    Oxbow Road Train Member

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  3. lester

    lester Midwest's #1 Feed Hauler

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    maybe like a 6 speed allison automatic. seen a few of those behind mechanical engines I believe
     
  4. AModelCat

    AModelCat Road Train Member

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    99.99% sure you'll need to swap in an electronically controlled engine, which I don't believe were offered in the 359 as its production run ended the same year the Series 60 made its debut. The transmission and engine work together to shift through the gears and that's not something easily accomplished with a mechanical engine. It'd be much simpler to swap out the engine and transmission as a matched pair IMO.

    An Allison would probably be easiest to mate to a mechanical engine since I am certain that's been done before.
     
  5. Diesel Dave

    Diesel Dave Last Few of the OUTLAWS

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    I think you mean “Peterbilt”, and why would you want to convert a to an automatic ?
     
  6. Star Rider

    Star Rider Road Train Member

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  7. wore out

    wore out Numbered Classic

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    I have seen a couple. There’s a 70’s Autocar at the Riceland in Marston Missouri that is an auto from the factory. Or seems to be just a single foot hammer and slide set up. I have no idea how well they did or did not work. I’ve only seent it never have witnessed movement
     
  8. Last Call

    Last Call Road Train Member

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    This is a joke right ?
    Why would you even think about destroying a classic piece of American history by doing that ?
    If you can not drive a manual transmission , Then stay the hell out of a 359 and go get your self something more suitable to your style like a Volvo or a freightliner
    You can not financially afford to destroy a truck like that trying to do something as stupid as that. Do yourself & that 359 a favor and sell the truck and let it keep its respect and dignity before you ruin it, and go buy yourself a Tupperware torpedo
     
    Last edited: Jan 15, 2024
  9. gokiddogo

    gokiddogo Road Train Member

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    How many bud lights does it take to come up with this?
     
  10. Last Call

    Last Call Road Train Member

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    In other countries a person would be whipped in public for even asking that question