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1956 Torqueflite
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MOPAR-TO-YA
Posted 2017-12-31 9:33 PM (#555334)
Subject: 1956 Torqueflite


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I know that in later 1956, Chrysler and Imperial brought out the torqueflite. I think Chryslers that had them was 300B and maybe New Yorkers? I also know that certain Dodges and maybe Desoto had them. I don't think any Plymouths did. Anyone have more information ? ......................MO
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60 dart
Posted 2017-12-31 10:35 PM (#555337 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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info i've been told by others , supposedly in the know , 56 imp. and late 56 desoto ---------------------------------------------later
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jboymechanic
Posted 2017-12-31 10:48 PM (#555340 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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When the TorqueFlite became available in mid to late model year 1956, they immediately became standard equipment in all Imperials. I don't know the exact Imperial serial number the switch was made.
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57chizler
Posted 2018-01-01 1:12 PM (#555377 - in reply to #555340)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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If you look in the parts manual, it only shows the Torqueflite used in the Chrysler and Imperial in '56.
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56D500boy
Posted 2018-01-01 2:48 PM (#555382 - in reply to #555340)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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jboymechanic - 2017-12-31 10:48 PM
When the TorqueFlite became available in mid to late model year 1956, they immediately became standard equipment in all Imperials. I don't know the exact Imperial serial number the switch was made.


"The TorqueFlite was not just used by Chrysler; it was adopted by luxury automakers Monteverdi, Facel Vega, Bristol, Aston Martin, Maserati, and Jensen, as well as domestic rival AMC and commercial-vehicle makers International Harvester, Land Rover, Iveco, Karrier, Matbro, Stonefield, Sirmac, Boss Motor, and Mitsubishi.

The first TorqueFlite automatic transmission was the A-488, launched in the 1956 Imperial. Sealed in an iron case, this first TorqueFlite had both a front and rear pump, the latter allowing push-starts. Because the transmissions were shifted by pushbuttons, the transmission had a reverse blocker valve that shifted them into Neutral when drivers accidentally punched Reverse while moving forward."


REFERENCE: https://www.allpar.com/mopar/torqueflite.html



Edited by 56D500boy 2018-01-01 2:49 PM
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Powerflite
Posted 2018-01-01 10:30 PM (#555412 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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We have discussed this before. The conclusion was that it was used in the late '56 Imperial and 300B only.
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Powerflite
Posted 2018-01-01 10:33 PM (#555413 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite



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The buttons, bezel, and shifter mechanism are the same as the truck shifters used in '57-'64.
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MOPAR-TO-YA
Posted 2018-01-02 12:18 AM (#555423 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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When I thought I would convert my 56 Chrysler from powerflite to torqueflite, I was searching ebay for quite some time for the push button dash componets. There were a few that came up over a period of years. I placed higher and higher bids on them and was always beat by the same bidder every time. I got in touch with him and asked why he wanted them. I knew he was a Dodge guy, and he told me that certain 1956 d500 Dodges had them. I also know that a past moderator on this FL site ( Hank Dozier ? ) was looking for the same parts and had everything but the Desoto ribbed bezel. He was making one.
Anyway, I have all the dash componets except for one pushbutton ( and I believe that could be made from a couple of other buttons that I have) and I am considering selling it.....................MO
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MOPAR-TO-YA
Posted 2018-01-02 12:22 AM (#555424 - in reply to #555377)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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57chizler - 2018-01-01 12:12 PM


If you look in the parts manual, it only shows the Torqueflite used in the Chrysler and Imperial in '56.
Parts books were up-dated during the year. . They should include the 300B.. Does your parts book include Desoto and Dodge ?
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57chizler
Posted 2018-01-02 1:20 PM (#555450 - in reply to #555424)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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MOPAR-TO-YA - 2018-01-01 9:22 PM

Parts books were up-dated during the year. . They should include the 300B.. Does your parts book include Desoto and Dodge ?


Yep, and it's dated November 1958.
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MOPAR-TO-YA
Posted 2018-01-02 1:45 PM (#555454 - in reply to #555450)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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57chizler - 2018-01-02 12:20 PM

MOPAR-TO-YA - 2018-01-01 9:22 PM

Parts books were up-dated during the year. . They should include the 300B.. Does your parts book include Desoto and Dodge ?


Yep, and it's dated November 1958.
Maybe parts books don't tell the whole story. My research -information , shows that the early Dodge pickups-trucks with torqueflite used a similar shifter mechanism, bezel , and pod----but they are different from the passenger cars. The car mechs. had a mounted reverse switch on them , a rib down the outside of the pod and the chrome cover, The Chrysler and Imperial had a smooth bezel , but the DeSoto bezel was ribbed. That DeSoto bezel is so rare, according to Hank D. , he was making one
There must be someone among the Dodge Gu-Ru's that can give some info on the D500's......................................MO
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Powerflite
Posted 2018-01-02 2:24 PM (#555457 - in reply to #555454)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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The truck bezels are ribbed too, like the Dodge cars so they make it a drop-in for a Dodge. The smooth Chrysler or Imperial version are hard to find originals and looks like they are one big casting - so you would probably have to solder old holes back in, and cut new ones into it. But since it is smooth, it is doable. The waffle pattern on the DeSoto is more of a challenge. But the hardest would be to try and make one for the Plymouth since even the ad slogan on it would need to be moved or removed.

Edited by Powerflite 2018-01-02 2:29 PM




(1958-Dodge-Buttons.gif)



(1956-Chrysler-Imperial-pushbutton.jpg)



(1956-desoto-fireflite Buttons.jpg)



(56PlyButtons.jpg)



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Attachments 1958-Dodge-Buttons.gif (196KB - 411 downloads)
Attachments 1956-Chrysler-Imperial-pushbutton.jpg (192KB - 361 downloads)
Attachments 1956-desoto-fireflite Buttons.jpg (136KB - 324 downloads)
Attachments 56PlyButtons.jpg (481KB - 366 downloads)
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57burb
Posted 2018-01-02 2:53 PM (#555459 - in reply to #555457)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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There are examples of factory installed Torqueflites in 1956 Imperials, Chryslers, and Dodges (both cars and trucks) - but no Plymouths. There was a part number to install the TF into 1956 Desotos, but I have yet to see one turn up.

Bill (Chrycoman) documented the faceplate part numbers for Powerflite and Torqueflite from the Chrysler of Canada 1956 passenger car parts catalog (printed Feb 1957):

There are four face plates for Plymouth and Dodge -
Plymouth and Plymouth-based Dodge, LHD, with Powerflite - 1694 371
Plymouth and Plymouth-based Dodge, LHD, with Torqueflite - 1705 222
Dodge, LHD, with Powerflite - 1694 374
Dodge, LHD, with Torqueflite - 1705 370

Gear selector bezel for DeSoto, Chrysler and Imperial -
DeSoto, LHD, Powerflite - 1685 106
DeSoto, LHD, Torqueflite - 1685 198
Chrysler, Imperial, LHD, Powerflite - 1685 104
Chrysler, Imperial, LHD, Torqueflite - 1685 735


http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=60155


Edited by 57burb 2018-01-02 2:55 PM
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Powerflite
Posted 2018-01-02 3:35 PM (#555462 - in reply to #555459)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Show me this factory example of a torqueflite in a '56 Dodge (car). I want to see it and it's FCA sheet. I don't believe it exists. The push to go to the torqueflite in '56 came from the heavy vehicles - the trucks and Imperials. The 300B *may* have gotten some for racing purposes. It is far more likely to see a '56 Dodge truck or Fargo truck with a factory torqueflite than a Dodge car. These part numbers were created, but that doesn't mean that they were actually made. Bill also states in the same post:

"Checking the U.S. car parts catalogue for 1955-1958, there is no mention of the parts for a Torqueflite installation on a 1956 Plymouth, Dodge , DeSoto or Chrysker, only for Imperial. Similarly, the Torqueflite part number 1823 593 is listed only for the Imperial in 1956, although it was also used after 1956 on all Chrysler Corp. cars. The bezel for the Torqueflite transmission buttons is listed only for the Imperial in the U.S. book, 1685 735, again with no mention of parts for Plymouth, Dodge, DeSoto or Chrysler.

So, it looks like Chrysler had designed and tooled the necessary parts to have Torqueflite installed on all 1956 models, Chrysler of Canada updated its books accordingly, but only the Imperial offered Torqueflite in 1956. "
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56D500boy
Posted 2018-01-02 3:56 PM (#555463 - in reply to #555462)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Didn't somebody try to tell me that Hemmings is never wrong?

Have look at this BS:

"For the 1956 model year, the TorqueFlite was available on Plymouth, Dodge, De Soto, Chrysler and Imperial models. These vehicles varied in weight from 3,770 to 5,200 pounds; in engine displacement from 301 to 392 cubic inches; and in axle ratio from 2.92:1 to 3.54:1. In general, cars equipped with a TorqueFlite featured an axle one numerical ratio lower than previous models. A 12.5-inch-diameter water-cooled torque converter was used with the 392-cubic-inch engine. All other engines used an 11.75-inch-diameter torque converter.

In deference to traditional design, the TorqueFlite maintained the push-button gear selector pioneered with the 1955 PowerFlite. The only difference was the addition of an extra button for third gear selection."


Reference: https://www.hemmings.com/magazine/hcc/2005/06/Torque-to-Me/1281252.h...



Edited by 56D500boy 2018-01-02 3:57 PM
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56D500boy
Posted 2018-01-02 4:55 PM (#555467 - in reply to #555463)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Not sure if this is going to help or not. But it is information/data

Found a NOS 56 Chrysler automatic shifter box on eBay. PN 1673 906. Searching the 55-58 Mopar Parts pdf for that PN (with Ctrl F = search), it comes up as 56 Chrysler/Imperial only. Then as the year turns to 1957 and 58, there are more PNs for the "same" shifter .





Looks like a 5 button shifter:



1673 906 56 Chrysler/Imperial *ONLY*







Edited by 56D500boy 2018-01-02 5:44 PM




(56Chrysler3spdAutoShifterPN1673906.jpg)



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57burb
Posted 2018-01-02 5:09 PM (#555470 - in reply to #555462)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Let's document what we definitely know about 1956 cars with Torqueflites:

Plymouth
No question, these weren't built with Torqueflites. Mopar never even bothered to make a bezel to fit the shifter. Let me know if this is in dispute.

Imperial
No question, these did get TFs, and across the board. From Chrysler TSB No. 953-CH dated February 22, 1956: TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission entered production on the 1956 Imperial C-73 at serial number C56-6700.
Standard Catalog of Chrysler says the range of C73 VINs (standard Imperial) go from C56-1001 to C56-11715 (10,715 cars total). With TF installation starting at C56-6700 (the 5,700th car) that would mean the other 5,015 '56 Imperials were built with Torqueflites - close to half the total production. Not that rare, actually.

Chrysler
Standard Catalog only says "Late 300-Bs used three-speed Torqueflite transmissions." I think we all agree that some of the later 300Bs ended up with TFs. But what about New Yorkers or any other Chrysler? Any TSBs on Chrysler installations, or FCA sheets documenting '56 Chryslers built with a TF?

Desoto
I don't see any indication of any '56 Desotos actually built with a TF. Anyone seen that?

Dodge
That thread above shows a Torqueflite installed in a '56 Dodge that has a casting number not referenced by any book, but a service number that codes as the Torqueflite used in '56 Imperials. If it was a home brewed swap, they dug up a fairly unusual transmission to do it with. The owner said it looked like it was always there, and also notes that "Torqueflite is app 4 in longer and the support is in the right place... the driveshaft is right length and not home made." Dodge did not share the wheelbase of the Imperial or Chrysler, so where did the shaft come from? The FCA decodes that car as built with Transmission Code=3, which is N/A on the sheet, but codes as Powerflite by another '56 Dodge owner in the thread. So the question is, how was that car originally built? Code says PF and that would normally end the story right there. But if someone asked me if it was possible that Dodge took a top end '56 CRL convertible built in May 1956 (well after TF introduction) and with a Super Red Ram V8 - and installed a Torqueflite in it, I'd have to say I could see it happening. I could also see TFs finding a home in D500-1 cars for obvious reasons of performance and durability. Does anyone have an FCA sheet that would back that up? I haven't seen it.

After taking a pretty deep internet dive, there isn't much evidence of documented '56 Dodge Torqueflite installations (none?). But tailfins here mentioned this: "i had a 56 golden lancer d500 rusty convertible years ago,very late production,and it had torqueflite and a 5 button dash control similar to some late 56 imperials." I suppose he could be talking about this same car before it was restored.

Some fun reading:

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=43553
http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=55566
http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=56199
http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=60155

Edited by 57burb 2018-01-02 5:37 PM
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Powerflite
Posted 2018-01-02 5:38 PM (#555473 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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I could also see a motivated owner of a '56 CRL vert swapping a torqueflite into his car in the '60's, '70's, '80's etc. once the powerflite started giving him trouble - especially if he had a used/wrecked Imperial available, which seems plausible. The driveshaft is no evidence at all. I could have one made up to any length that looks completely stock. If his car was originally built with a torqueflite, there would be some indication of it in the paperwork somewhere. I'm not saying it is impossible either, because they really did have the parts needed to get it done on the Dodge (and DeSoto too) once they started making them for the trucks. But I'm not going to believe it as a fact until I see a documented example.
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Beltran
Posted 2018-01-02 6:16 PM (#555479 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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I bet you could get the dealership to do it too. They did a lot of custom work back then.
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56D500boy
Posted 2018-01-02 6:21 PM (#555481 - in reply to #555473)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Powerflite - 2018-01-02 5:38 PM

I could also see a motivated owner of a '56 CRL vert swapping a torqueflite into his car in the '60's, '70's, '80's etc. once the powerflite started giving him trouble


Dave Homstad converted to a TorqueFlite in his 56 CR 2dr Lancer (with D500 engine). Here is the link to his documentation (a lot of work in my mind):

http://webpages.charter.net/dhomstad/TransmissionFrame1Source1.htm

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MOPAR-TO-YA
Posted 2018-01-03 1:36 AM (#555506 - in reply to #555459)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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57burb - 2018-01-02 1:53 PM

There are examples of factory installed Torqueflites in 1956 Imperials, Chryslers, and Dodges (both cars and trucks) - but no Plymouths. There was a part number to install the TF into 1956 Desotos, but I have yet to see one turn up.

Bill (Chrycoman) documented the faceplate part numbers for Powerflite and Torqueflite from the Chrysler of Canada 1956 passenger car parts catalog (printed Feb 1957):

There are four face plates for Plymouth and Dodge -
Plymouth and Plymouth-based Dodge, LHD, with Powerflite - 1694 371
Plymouth and Plymouth-based Dodge, LHD, with Torqueflite - 1705 222
Dodge, LHD, with Powerflite - 1694 374
Dodge, LHD, with Torqueflite - 1705 370

Gear selector bezel for DeSoto, Chrysler and Imperial -
DeSoto, LHD, Powerflite - 1685 106
DeSoto, LHD, Torqueflite - 1685 198
Chrysler, Imperial, LHD, Powerflite - 1685 104
Chrysler, Imperial, LHD, Torqueflite - 1685 735


http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=60155
Thank you 57 Burb ( and others) that is exactly what I wanted to know. I choose to believe there were 56 Dodges with Torqueflite from the factory
I have heard that some California folks can be stubborn LOL.............................MO

Edited by MOPAR-TO-YA 2018-01-03 1:39 AM
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Chrycoman
Posted 2018-01-03 2:03 AM (#555508 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Did some checking on the propeller shaft (as Chrysler Engineering referred to the Driveshaft) in Group 16, and only Imperlal models C70, C73 and the Chrysler 300 (C72-300) is listed with a propeller shaft for a Torqueflite transmission -

# 1732 667 for the 300-B
# 1732 673 for Imperial C73 - front
# 1732 674 for Imperial C73 - rear
# 1732 676 for Imperial C70* - front
# 1732 677 for Imperial C70* - rear

The Imperials also list different centre universal joints for the Torqeflite installations.

But no special Torqueflite driveshafts or universal joints for Plymouth, Dodge, DeSoto or Chrysler Windsor/New Yorker models.

The listing for the 300-B appears in the Canadian 1956 parts catalogue (February 1957) but not the US 1955-58 Master (January 1961).


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swed57
Posted 2018-01-03 3:04 AM (#555509 - in reply to #555506)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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Ok here we have two houses for Dodge 56
Left for powerflite mechanism and right for torqueflite mechanism
Look where the detail number is located on the house for the torqueflite. The house is thus cast at the factory and not a modified house for powerflite. In a powerflite house, you can not get in 5 buttons without rebuilding it. The lower (1 & 2) simply has no place. What is strange is that it is the same number as on the house of powerflite.
I think they did a lot of expriment and special things that were not documented at the time.



(22.jpg)



(3.jpg)



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Chrycoman
Posted 2018-01-03 3:57 AM (#555510 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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There is a part number 1694 290 listed in the parts book - push button housing (in prime) for the 1956 Dodge with Powerflite. Nothing for Torqueflite in 1956.

The housing for Torqueflite is listed in the 1960 Dodge Truck parts book (do not have 1956-59 truck parts books) as part number 1666 611. Again, in prime.

As the two housing are not identical, a unique part number was assigned to each style.
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56D500boy
Posted 2018-01-03 8:19 AM (#555513 - in reply to #555510)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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As per Dave Homstad's instructions, I suspect that the four-eared 1694 290 housing is factory stock and the two-eared version has been modified by someone:

Dave H. said:

"4. I found that the original PF button housing on the dash had 2 unused threaded ears at the bottom of the front opening. These may have been intended to be used for holding the cover plate, but never were. These lower ears will interfere with the "1" and "2" buttons. Cut off these lower ears, being careful to leave the rim of the opening for mounting the cover and not to mar the outer paint finish. I used a hacksaw blade held with a pliers to cut the soft pot metal."

REFERENCE: http://webpages.charter.net/dhomstad/TransmissionFrame1Source1.htm

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57burb
Posted 2018-01-03 8:19 AM (#555514 - in reply to #555508)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Chrycoman - 2018-01-03 1:03 AM


Did some checking on the propeller shaft (as Chrysler Engineering referred to the Driveshaft) in Group 16, and only Imperlal models C70, C73 and the Chrysler 300 (C72-300) is listed with a propeller shaft for a Torqueflite transmission -

# 1732 667 for the 300-B
# 1732 673 for Imperial C73 - front
# 1732 674 for Imperial C73 - rear
# 1732 676 for Imperial C70* - front
# 1732 677 for Imperial C70* - rear

The Imperials also list different centre universal joints for the Torqeflite installations.

But no special Torqueflite driveshafts or universal joints for Plymouth, Dodge, DeSoto or Chrysler Windsor/New Yorker models.

The listing for the 300-B appears in the Canadian 1956 parts catalogue (February 1957) but not the US 1955-58 Master (January 1961).

Thanks for that research, Bill!

I think this post closes the door on any conjecture or debate - the only cars that had factory assembly-line installed Torqueflites for 1956 were C70 (and C73 - Crown) Imperials and 300Bs.

I'm sure there were a lot of experiments with TFs by all the makes prior to 1957. It would take some paperwork to back up the claim of such a car making it outside the walls. Having the part number cast in a different spot on the shifter bezel is very interesting though! I agree that that part was created within Chrysler. I would be looking for any other evidence of Chrysler using that car as an engineering mule.

Edited by 57burb 2018-01-03 8:42 AM
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56D500boy
Posted 2018-01-03 8:21 AM (#555515 - in reply to #555510)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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As per Dave Homstad's instructions, I suspect that the four-eared 1694 290 housing is factory stock and the two-eared version has been modified by someone (maybe the factory). Note the location of the two part numbers are different (so it looks like there was a lot of thought gone into the two-eared version of the 1694 290).

Dave H. said:

"4. I found that the original PF button housing on the dash had 2 unused threaded ears at the bottom of the front opening. These may have been intended to be used for holding the cover plate, but never were. These lower ears will interfere with the "1" and "2" buttons. Cut off these lower ears, being careful to leave the rim of the opening for mounting the cover and not to mar the outer paint finish. I used a hacksaw blade held with a pliers to cut the soft pot metal."

REFERENCE: http://webpages.charter.net/dhomstad/TransmissionFrame1Source1.htm

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Powerflite
Posted 2018-01-03 10:34 AM (#555520 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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That housing is the best evidence so far. Did Dodge change the housing to this 2 ear version for all the later built powerflite cars, or is this one specially made for a unique application? Very interesting.
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RUSTORICHES
Posted 2018-01-07 7:08 PM (#555806 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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Here's an article I found and just an excerpt from it referencing the 56 300B torqueflite trans

Edited by RUSTORICHES 2018-01-07 7:16 PM




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Attachments Quoted portions by Curtis Redgap.docx (128KB - 386 downloads)
Attachments Document1.pdf (56KB - 360 downloads)
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Power Meet Sweden
Posted 2018-02-12 12:22 PM (#557957 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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!What Kiekhaefer wants! Kiekhaefer Gets! Check the dealer code for this car!

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=60155&...
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Power Meet Sweden
Posted 2018-02-15 11:40 AM (#558143 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite


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59998



(56.jpg)



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56D500boy
Posted 2018-10-22 3:56 PM (#572183 - in reply to #555470)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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57burb - 2018-01-02 5:09 PM

Let's document what we definitely know about 1956 cars with Torqueflites:

Imperial
No question, these did get TFs, and across the board. From Chrysler TSB No. 953-CH dated February 22, 1956: TorqueFlite 3-speed automatic transmission entered production on the 1956 Imperial C-73 at serial number C56-6700.
Standard Catalog of Chrysler says the range of C73 VINs (standard Imperial) go from C56-1001 to C56-11715 (10,715 cars total). With TF installation starting at C56-6700 (the 5,700th car) that would mean the other 5,015 '56 Imperials were built with Torqueflites - close to half the total production. Not that rare, actually.


Just to follow up, there is a 56 Imperial that is currently on eBay:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/1956-Chrysler-Imperial/362462256927?hash=it...

It shows up with a Torqueflite button pad. Too bad there is no sign of the VIN in the auction details.









(56ImperialWithTorqueFlite_2.jpg)



(56ImperialWithTorqueFlite.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments 56ImperialWithTorqueFlite_2.jpg (153KB - 316 downloads)
Attachments 56ImperialWithTorqueFlite.jpg (105KB - 308 downloads)
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chryslerman101
Posted 2020-09-08 10:02 PM (#603042 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite


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I have attached the 1956 Desoto Torqueflite serice manual and 1956 Imperial-Chrysler Torqueflite service manual, which both manuals has a print date of March 1956. Both of these service manuals were originally downloaded by 56D500boy on another thread and I thought that it was best to preserve its historic information also on this main 1956 Torqueflite thread.





(56ChryslerTorquefliteFactoryServiceManual_Cover.jpg)



(56ChryslerTorquefliteFactoryServiceManual_Index.jpg)



(56DesotoTorquefliteFactoryServiceManual_Cover.jpg)



(56DesotoTorquefliteFactoryServiceManual_Index.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments 56ChryslerTorquefliteFactoryServiceManual_Cover.jpg (198KB - 259 downloads)
Attachments 56ChryslerTorquefliteFactoryServiceManual_Index.jpg (245KB - 244 downloads)
Attachments 56DesotoTorquefliteFactoryServiceManual_Cover.jpg (57KB - 251 downloads)
Attachments 56DesotoTorquefliteFactoryServiceManual_Index.jpg (133KB - 263 downloads)
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chryslerman101
Posted 2020-09-12 1:57 PM (#603130 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite


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Added 1956 Torqueflite 3-speed automatic transmission information on the very late production (July) car models of a 1956 Chrysler New Yorker and 1956 Plymouth Belvedere, which is currently on another thread (see below) and I thought that it is best to keep all of its historic information on this main 1956 Torqueflite thread page as well.

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=74555&posts=11#M603129

 

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chryslerman101
Posted 2020-09-16 10:39 PM (#603251 - in reply to #603130)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite


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It looks Chrysler Corporation's new Torqueflite automatic transmissions might of also been avaialble as a special purchase order for its late production 1956 Chrysler Windsor V-8 engine models as well. I had found a 1956 Chrysler Corporation MasterTech film on Youtube, which discusses the new Torqueflite automatic transmissions and it is demostrated in a 1956 Chrysler Windsor car model. I had taken some screen shot photos of the film and attached them below, along with the main Youtube link.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOrO4FtoF3A





(1956 chrysler windsor torqueflite----mastertech film-volume 9-3.jpg)



(1956 windsor torqueflite=mastertech film-Feb 1956.jpg)



(1956 windsor torqueflite=mastertech film=Feb 1956.jpg)



(1956 chrysler windsor torqueflite-mastertech film.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments 1956 chrysler windsor torqueflite----mastertech film-volume 9-3.jpg (77KB - 255 downloads)
Attachments 1956 windsor torqueflite=mastertech film-Feb 1956.jpg (107KB - 260 downloads)
Attachments 1956 windsor torqueflite=mastertech film=Feb 1956.jpg (103KB - 261 downloads)
Attachments 1956 chrysler windsor torqueflite-mastertech film.jpg (97KB - 283 downloads)
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Beltran
Posted 2020-09-16 11:59 PM (#603254 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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they were available. Imperial and 300's had them.

finding that 5 button pod took me 7 years. But I have a fabricated one I used for 4 years. it worked great and only the purists could tell the difference.

Edited by Beltran 2020-09-17 12:02 AM
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chryslerman101
Posted 2020-09-18 8:25 PM (#603299 - in reply to #603251)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite


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I had some some other interesting information on the late production 1956 Chrysler and Imperial car models with its new Torqueflite automatic transmissions. I had found a guy selling the "same" 1956 Chrysler and Imperial Torqueflite transmission service manual, what was printed (March 1956), and it has already been downloaded earlier onto this thread post. The seller had included a Chrysler Sales Division letter dated April 17th 1956, and it was sent to all of its Chrysler car dealerships, which I have downloaded it. I also found a couple of car dealership ads from my old newspaper archive collection, which shows them advertising a 1956 Chrysler Windsor car model with the Torqueflite transmission. 





(1956 Chrysler_ Imperial Torque Flite Transmission Manual and Chrysler letter.jpg)



(1956 Chrysler_ Imperial Torque Flite Transmission Manual - Chrysler letter.jpg)



(1956 chrysler windsor torqueflite --steubenville-herald-star-aug-28-1958-p-42.jpg)



(1956 chrysler windsor torqueflite =The_Palm_Beach_Post_Fri__Sep_4__1959_.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments 1956 Chrysler_ Imperial Torque Flite Transmission Manual and Chrysler letter.jpg (247KB - 252 downloads)
Attachments 1956 Chrysler_ Imperial Torque Flite Transmission Manual - Chrysler letter.jpg (240KB - 256 downloads)
Attachments 1956 chrysler windsor torqueflite --steubenville-herald-star-aug-28-1958-p-42.jpg (229KB - 249 downloads)
Attachments 1956 chrysler windsor torqueflite =The_Palm_Beach_Post_Fri__Sep_4__1959_.jpg (236KB - 252 downloads)
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56D500boy
Posted 2020-09-18 8:47 PM (#603300 - in reply to #603299)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite



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It would be nice to find a Chrysler (or Desoto or Dodge or...) Parts Information Bulletin that outlined the release of the Torqueflite to products other than the C70 and C73 Imperials. So far all we've seen is:





(RickHirshsTorquefliteArticle_Part3Page35_small.jpg)



(RickHirshsTorquefliteArticle_Part3Page35_exerpt.jpg)



Attachments
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Attachments RickHirshsTorquefliteArticle_Part3Page35_small.jpg (245KB - 245 downloads)
Attachments RickHirshsTorquefliteArticle_Part3Page35_exerpt.jpg (238KB - 238 downloads)
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chryslerman101
Posted 2020-09-18 9:19 PM (#603301 - in reply to #603300)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite


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Thanks 56D500boy for downloading the photo of the 1956 DeSoto Fireflite with a Torqueflite transmission from the Mecum car auctions, which I have never seen a 1956 DeSoto car that had one before.

I have a question for you. Why did you make the following statement about the article from Hemmings magazine about the 1956 Chrysler Corporation Torqueflites ?

"Didn't somebody try to tell me that Hemmings is never wrong?" 

"Have look at this BS:" 

"For the 1956 model year, the TorqueFlite was available on Plymouth, Dodge, De Soto, Chrysler and Imperial models. These vehicles varied in weight from 3,770 to 5,200 pounds; in engine displacement from 301 to 392 cubic inches; and in axle ratio from 2.92:1 to 3.54:1. In general, cars equipped with a TorqueFlite featured an axle one numerical ratio lower than previous models. A 12.5-inch-diameter water-cooled torque converter was used with the 392-cubic-inch engine. All other engines used an 11.75-inch-diameter torque converter. 

In deference to traditional design, the TorqueFlite maintained the push-button gear selector pioneered with the 1955 PowerFlite. The only difference was the addition of an extra button for third gear selection." 

https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/torque-to-me



Edited by chryslerman101 2020-09-18 9:23 PM
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Powerflite
Posted 2020-09-18 9:26 PM (#603302 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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There are a lot of inaccuracies in that statement.
1. The 392 wasn't available in 1956.
2. The '55 Powerflite didn't use push-buttons, unless he is talking about late 1955 calendar year.
3. There is no evidence that the Torqueflite was ever offered in a '56 Plymouth and no special faceplate has ever shown up for one.
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56D500boy
Posted 2020-09-18 9:43 PM (#603303 - in reply to #603301)
Subject: RE: 1956 Torqueflite



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I think Powerflite has answered your question as to exactly why I thought Hemmings was full of Sh*t (again).

As for the Jay Weinberg 56 Desoto, I do not and would not believe that the Torqueflite was factory unless the car's IBM card said so.

Anybody seen said card?



Edited by 56D500boy 2020-09-18 9:53 PM
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chryslerman101
Posted 2020-09-18 10:02 PM (#603304 - in reply to #603302)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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The 392 Chrysler Hemi engine was available in the fall of 1956, for its new 1957 car models. Also, the Powerflite push button was available in the fall of 1955, for its new Chrysler Corporation new 1956 car models. And finally, there is an example of a "Special Purchase" ordered late production (July) 1956 Plymouth Belvedere car model with a Torqueflite transmission - see thread below ...

http://www.forwardlook.net/forums/forums/thread-view.asp?tid=74555&posts=11#M603129

 

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Powerflite
Posted 2020-09-18 11:00 PM (#603306 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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What part of "For the 1956 model year...." didn't you understand? I noted that there could have been some interpretation about model vs. calendar year on the Powerflite, but the first statement about the 392 is, without doubt, just wrong. Also, don't believe what an old ad says. I'm sure many salesmen just claim that everything has the latest & greatest when in actuality, it doesn't. Label me unimpressed. I agree with David. Show me the IBM proof. There are plenty of '56 Plymouths running around, many very late production, and I have never, ever seen any kind of proof of a torqueflite in any of them. I have seen 2 really nice conversions though. They are very impressive, but not in terms of your argument.
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Powerflite
Posted 2020-09-18 11:02 PM (#603307 - in reply to #555334)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Also, in order to put a torqueflite into a '56 Plymouth, it would require a new part number for the faceplate. Show me the part number! Until you do, you're just blowing hot air.
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chryslerman101
Posted 2020-09-18 11:20 PM (#603308 - in reply to #603307)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite


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The late production 1956 Plymouth's Torqueflite faceplate part number is also shown on this "same" thread and was downloaded originally by Chryroman and also 57burb, which its part number is 1705 222

There are four face plates for Plymouth and Dodge - 
Plymouth and Plymouth-based Dodge, LHD, with Powerflite - 1694 371 
Plymouth and Plymouth-based Dodge, LHD, with Torqueflite - 1705 222 
Dodge, LHD, with Powerflite - 1694 374 
Dodge, LHD, with Torqueflite - 1705 370 

Gear selector bezel for DeSoto, Chrysler and Imperial - 
DeSoto, LHD, Powerflite - 1685 106 
DeSoto, LHD, Torqueflite - 1685 198 
Chrysler, Imperial, LHD, Powerflite - 1685 104 
Chrysler, Imperial, LHD, Torqueflite - 1685 735

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56D500boy
Posted 2020-09-18 11:53 PM (#603311 - in reply to #603308)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Chryserman101 said (my comments are in bold beside what he said):

There are four face plates for Plymouth and Dodge -
Plymouth and Plymouth-based Dodge, LHD, with Powerflite - 1694 371 True. In the 55-58 Mopar Parts Catalog (pdf and hardcopy)
Plymouth and Plymouth-based Dodge, LHD, with Torqueflite - 1705 222 Not in the 55-58 Mopar Parts Catalog (pdf and hardcopy) *BUT* in the 1956 Chrysler Canada Parts Catalogue (hard copy) Pg. 19-23
Dodge, LHD, with Powerflite - 1694 374 True. In the 55-58 Mopar Parts Catalog (pdf and hardcopy)
Dodge, LHD, with Torqueflite - 1705 370 Not in the 55-58 Mopar Parts Catalog (pdf and hardcopy) *BUT* in the 1956 Chrysler Canada Parts Catalogue (hard copy) Pg. 19-23. I am running one in my 56 Dodge with Torqueflite conversion

Gear selector bezel for DeSoto, Chrysler and Imperial -
DeSoto, LHD, Powerflite - 1685 106 True. In the 55-58 Mopar Parts Catalog (pdf and hardcopy)
DeSoto, LHD, Torqueflite - 1685 198 Not in the 55-58 Mopar Parts Catalog (pdf and hardcopy) *BUT* in the 1956 Chrysler Canada Parts Catalogue (hard copy) Pg. 19-23
Chrysler, Imperial, LHD, Powerflite - 1685 104 True. In the 55-58 Mopar Parts Catalog (pdf and hardcopy)
Chrysler, Imperial, LHD, Torqueflite - 1685 735 True. In the 55-58 Mopar Parts Catalog (pdf and hardcopy)

I think that the Plymouth 1705 222 faceplate might be Unicorn Rocking Horse poo. Good luck finding one (if indeed they ever existed). They might have created a part number but that doesn't mean that they ever produced or used the part. Needs more hunting.




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Powerflite
Posted 2020-09-19 1:22 AM (#603313 - in reply to #603311)
Subject: Re: 1956 Torqueflite



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Making a part number is a good sign. At least it shows they had a plan to include it. Maybe they just never had any sales for it, or changed their minds based on lack of interest.
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