'64 Rambler Driveline

Hello.

I have a '64 Rambler Classic Wagon that has its original 287, auto transmission, torque tube and rear end. I have added air bags all around on this vehicle. It has some transmission leaks and I suspect that fluid is getting into the torque tube.

 

I recently took it to a transmission shop that is owned by a older guy that told me he has been doing this work for 40 years and had worked on many Ramblers. The transmission operated great but I want the leaks stopped. I bought a kit and a large rubber like seal for the torque tube.

 

The guy went through the transmission and then informed me he didn't install the large/expensive rubber for the torque tube as it would be useless as the constant changing of angles on the tube as a result of the bags would just have it leaking again....Sounds logical but I would like some of your thoughts on this matter.

 

Futhermore if this is the case and the leaking will continue can I keep the transmission (just spent 600.00 on it) and change it over to an open shaft? I wouldn't have a problem changing the rear end also.

 

Your advice on this matter is appreciated.

If you insist. 
The torque tube should be dry. 
There is no oil to leak out of the tube.
This does not make sense.
"he didn't install the large/expensive rubber for the torque tube as it would be useless as the constant changing of angles on the tube as a result of the bags would just have it leaking again"
Did you raise or lower the car substantially?
Would appear that the cushion/isolator would see the same movement as with steel springs.
In fact Ramblers (late 1950's early 1960's) were built with an optional air ride rear suspension.

Are you using the stock rear shocks?  If so the maximum height has not changed.  It does not appear the minimum height has changed. 

The stock suspension will be fine.

You can use the transmission with an open drive shaft if you would like.

I just don't see a need.

I'll take a stab at this too.
exactly what is leaking?
trans? are you sure? if so then there is a rear seal just as any other trans.
I don't see how you can be exceeding the design limits enough to damage it! There is simply not enough for aft movement to do so.
If its gear lube the tube needs to come off and the pinion seal replaced, again, from what I see on my disassembled 65 I don't see how your bags can be doing much of anything to do much damage. 
   Make sure you don't exceed the max original travel, or thereabouts, get that leak fixed and take it from there.
   Yes, you can use that trans with an open driveline. Pull the rear tailshaft. have it cut back to the seal area, you can do it yourself, but a machine shop can do a prettier job. That should then take a T10 yoke to gain length for travel. Rear axle and links and such would be your choice. the bag mounts and track bar can be transferred, or can be on a stock rear anyway.

   I'm facing the dilemma of what to use for trans and driveline in my 65, stock, or open with  Jeep T400 and new rear axle.

   I'd love to see how your bag setup is done.

Rebel 327 I tried to send you a PM but it rejected it because it said your box was full. PM me a phone # I have some questions.