I own a 1949 Buick Roadmaster Series 70, Model 71. Straight 8 320, 2 speed Dynaflow.
I need the torque ball replaced. I have brought it to 4 shops and all would keep it for a month, one 6 weeks only to tell me they were too nervous to work on my car. I bought all the necessary parts from Old Buick Parts out of NJ.
I live in Brockton, MA. I am clueless and nervous as to where to bring her. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. I have been driving her for years. This car has been in our family for over 30 years.
That's a tough one. Most mechanics today would have no idea at all what a torque tube or Dynaflow is, let alone how to deal with that torque ball. (Ramblers with torque tube drive have a much simpler setup where the tube meets the transmission, I'm working on one of those currently.) Have you checked with clubs or forums devoted to those cars for a lead to a good shop? Maybe checked Hemmings for leads?
As I recall those old Dynaflows were actually 1-speed automatics in normal use with a manually-selected low gear that could be engaged when needed. They did not shift gears automatically. The Dynaflow is very smooth, unlike the somewhat jerky shifting of the early Hydramatic, but not known for quick acceleration.
No I'm really curious. I know about torque tubes, but I've never heard of a "torque ball". What wizardry is this?
It's an assembly that basically combines the pivot and seal where the torque tube meets the back of the transmission, with a universal joint living inside. You can get an idea from this video which shows sealing the torque ball on a later model Dynaflow:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Urt3h1qwQ9A
No I'm really curious. I know about torque tubes, but I've never heard of a "torque ball". What wizardry is this?
