What was the last year of the Powerglide transmission?
The Powerglide transmission was a two-speed automatic transmission produced by General Motors from 1950 to 1973. It was a popular choice for many GM vehicles, known for its simplicity and durability. However, the Powerglide's reign came to an end in 1973, marking the last year of its production.
The Rise and Fall of the Powerglide
The Powerglide transmission was first introduced in 1950 as an option for Chevrolet vehicles. It quickly gained popularity due to its ease of use and reliable performance, becoming a staple in many GM models throughout the 1950s and 1960s. The Powerglide was known for its simple design, with only two forward gears and no torque converter, making it a cost-effective and low-maintenance option for automakers.
However, as the automotive industry evolved, the Powerglide's limitations became more apparent. The rise of more advanced transmissions, such as the three-speed Turbo-Hydramatic, offered improved performance and fuel efficiency, ultimately leading to the Powerglide's decline. By the early 1970s, the Powerglide was becoming increasingly outdated, and GM decided to discontinue its production.
The Last Year of the Powerglide
The final year of the Powerglide transmission was 1973. This two-speed automatic was still available as an option in some GM models, such as the Chevrolet Impala and Caprice, as well as the Pontiac Catalina and Bonneville. However, it was clear that the Powerglide's time had come to an end, as more advanced transmissions were becoming the industry standard.
The discontinuation of the Powerglide marked the end of an era for GM's transmission technology. The Powerglide had served the company well for over two decades, but it was ultimately replaced by more sophisticated and efficient transmissions that better met the needs of the evolving automotive market.
How much horsepower can a 2 speed Powerglide handle?
With all the available upgrades, both the Powerglide and the TH400 are capable of withstanding an incredible 3,500 horsepower.
What years did they make the Powerglide?
The Powerglide is a two-speed automatic transmission designed by General Motors. It was available primarily on Chevrolet from January 1950 through 1973, although some Pontiac models also used this automatic transmission after the fire at the Hydra-Matic factory in 1953.
What is the best transmission for drag racing?
For the all-out drag racer, two of the most historically prevalent automatic transmissions have been the GM Powerglide and the three-speed Turbo 400. They are simply proven tough units, perhaps earning their reputations as the result of money only being spent up-front, these are the ones that took the most abuse.
What cars did Powerglide come in?
Powerglide Applications
- 1963- 1972 full-size cars equipped with a six-cylinder engine came with a Powerglide.
- 1964-1972 Chevelle and Malibu.
- 1967-1972 Camaros.
- 1962-1973 Nova.
- 1962-1967 Corvette.
- 1970-1972 Monte Carlo.
- 1971-1973 Vega.
- 1964-1971 Full-Size Trucks and Vans.
What Powerglide is best for drag racing?
ATI's Superglide 4 is the strongest Powerglide in the industry, exclusively from ATI!
What is the HP limit for the 1.82 Powerglide?
The OEM powerglide was manufactured with two first gear ratios - 1.76 and 1.82. The 1.82 gear set is not suitable for most drag racing applications as its power limit is no more than ~ 550 HP engines in even lightweight cars.
What's better, Powerglide or TH400?
Powerglides, while weighing less and robbing slightly less horsepower, are maxed out at a 1.62 low gear, making them less forgiving than a two-speed Turbo 400. Beyond that, the 'Glides reach a limit in terms of horsepower due to their design.
What did a 2 speed Powerglide come in?
Chevrolet
The Powerglide is a two-speed automatic transmission designed by General Motors. It was available primarily on Chevrolet from January 1950 through 1973, although some Pontiac models also used this automatic transmission after the fire at the Hydra-Matic factory in 1953.
What is so special about a Powerglide transmission?
A Powerglide transmission is very durable in stock form — start adding some aftermarket parts and you have one stout unit. This elevated level of durability is another reason a Powerglide is perfect for bracket racing, as they can take a beating for an extended amount of runs.
What's the best automatic transmission for drag racing?
For the all-out drag racer, two of the most historically prevalent automatic transmissions have been the GM Powerglide and the three-speed Turbo 400. They are simply proven tough units, perhaps earning their reputations as the result of money only being spent up-front, these are the ones that took the most abuse.
