will the 833 o/d 4 speed trans fit 70 models bellhousings, o/d has 4 3/4'' bearing retainer size, while a cast iron 833 4 speed has a 4'' bearing retainer. pm me with any helpful answers.

There are 3 sizes if I remember right.
4.35 for small blocks
4.80 for big blocks
5.125 for OD

You'll have to swap the retainer if that's possible, or hog out the bellhousing hole to fit.

I had to turn the bearing retainer down and mill out the center hole on the bell.

I thought you could swap on a smaller bearing retainer?

As far as I know, the simplest solution is to get the bell housing from a 318/OD truck ('81 to '87).

I bought 1 on ebay. it was suppost to be a 71 to 74, but they lied. There is always some on ebay new, they say they are regular bells but look closely at the holes for the fork bracket as they are different along with the hole for the bearing retainer. You will need the fork bracket and I do not know if the fork will interchange. This is most likely cheaper than the machine work on the bell you have now. I might buy your old bell, PM me. Look at ebay Item 370316356429 I think this is what you need.

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The retainer will not turn down small enough because the bolt holes will not allow it.

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I've turned the retainer a dozen times...it works just fine.

Don't ruin a good bellhousing!! If you need to switch back simply make a sleeve for the retainer to bring it back to size.

How did you guys turn your retainers down... are you machinists? Did you do it at home? Thanks

I think there may be 2 different bolt patterns on the front retainers seems there maybe 2 different front bearings as well?