| M6 | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Chrysler Corporation |
| Also called | Presto-Matic Tip-Toe Shift Gyro-Matic Fluid-Matic Fluidtorque Gyrotorque |
| Production | 1946–1953 |
| Predecessor | M4 Vacamatic |
| Successor | PowerFlite |
| Class | 2-speed manual with overdrive and torque converter |
The M6 Presto-Matic was a Chrysler Corporation transmission produced from 1946 through 1953. It was a hybrid manual transmission with a torque converter or fluid coupling like an automatic. Although it had just 2 forward gears, an electric overdrive unit was attached and useful in either gear for a total of four forward speeds. The driver would use the clutch pedal any time he selected low, high, or reverse gear. Once underway, he could ease up on the accelerator and the car would engage the overdrive. With the Fluid Drive coupling, the car could be brought to a halt in gear without releasing the clutch and would creep like an automatic. The Presto-Matic name was only used on Chrysler-brand cars. DeSoto called the transmission the Tip-Toe Shift, while Dodge variously used Gyro-Matic, Fluid-Matic, Fluidtorque, or Gyrotorque. Chrysler and DeSoto sold the unit from 1946 through 1953, while Dodge did not introduce it until 1948. Plymouth introduced their Hy-Drive semi-automatic in 1953, but all were replaced by the PowerFlite automatic in 1954.
References
- The M6 "four-speed electro-hydraulic semi-automatic" transmission. Allpar.Com. Retrieved on February 22, 2006.
