Greetings All,
What's the general opinion on the feasibility of replacing the BW-35 automatic in my '71 164 with the similiar unit from a '75 245? Yes, I realize
that mine is column-shift while the wagon is floor-shift, but the linkages eventually activate the same input shaft, so couldn't my linkage be attached? Is the bell-housing bolt pattern identical, or could I just attach my bell to the later center-unit? Do they use the same size output flange? (Of course, the flange is changeable also.) Are kickdown-cables alike?
I'm also aware that the shift-points may be calibrated differently between the four & six engines, but I can't worry about that now. I've got to get this damn thing running--on a budget!

Gary in Arizona

Ya Know, Fellas . . . I guess you all have good intentions . . . but there is a reason why you don't see my name in this forum much anymore . . . and that's because it has become so damn discouraging trying to get any useful information.
I thought I made myself clear in my post, but perhaps my communications skills have rotted away with age, or . . . Tanqueray intake. Anyway, to beat
a dead Volvo; I am considering swapping an automatic tranny for another AUTOMATIC, AUTOMATIC, AUTOMATIC!!!
ALSO . . . since I mentioned the constraints of a budget, I wonder why I get suggestions about "custom bell-housings???"
Where's that green bottle . . .

Well sorry Gary, I think we are all just sugesting other options to look at, since most of us do not like the BW35 very much. After all, your question was :
What's the general opinion on the feasibility of replacing the BW-35 automatic?

If you want automatice ánd save money, the BW35 is the way to go. But since you already figured that out and don't want to hear about options, why ask?
Anyway, its easy to swap one BW for an other. There should be no problem with kickdown cable or shifter linkages or whatever. The only thing you might run into, is the fact that some BW35 are longer then others, which might require shortening/lengthening the drive shaft. Hope this helps.

Cheers
--
P131, '65, B20B+M47. P131, '69, B20E+AW71L+LSD. (www.tinustechniek.tk)

If you want to keep an auto tranny, go for an AW71. This is the 240/740 auto tranny which has a built in overdrive. It would take some tinkering, but it is certainly do-able. You would need a custom bellhousing or an adaptor plat to make it fit to the tranny, rework the shifter likages a bit, fix up an other tranny support x-member, and shorten the drive shaft. Oh and some wiring, or just use the floor shifter that goes with the AW71 tranny.

If your current BW35 is broken, dont fit an other. Its a slow bugger. Go for the AW71, or the easiest way: a manual M40 (or M41 (overdrive)).

Cheers, Ben
--
P131, '65, B20B+M47. P131, '69, B20E+AW71L+LSD. (www.tinustechniek.tk)

I realize that this will not reply to your questions, but, why replace a bad transmission with another bad transmission. Look around for an M410 - more fun to drive, better mileage, better power etc etc.
--
Kent - too much iron, too little time

71's had the long shifter, so you might have to cut a hole in the tunnel for it. I think you can just get the plate on the top of the trans for the long throw shifter and use that, you also need to install a clutch pedal.