T56 conversion parts for 2nd gen f-bodies

[takid455]

Here are some parts that I have/ will be making for my project 78 T/A. I am trying to see if anybody else I would be interested in any of these for their cars. I welcome comments and questions. As of now, the x-member is designed to allow lateral movement side to side to account for minor variances in subframes. Once it is all bolted up in the car, there is no more adjusting other than the elongated slots in the trans mount. I my remove the heims and add solid non adjustable ends if I find that all subframes have the same measurements. I have measure a few and they all are within 1/16” of each other at 28” between frame rails. If other can confirm this, I could revise the design.

ATS has parts for 1st gen and 2nd gen f-bodies up to 1974 (pre cats). 1975 & later cars all had cats and a wider subframe. I have spoken with Tyler and he stated that at the moment, he has not intentions of making applications for the post 74 cars. In the future possibly, but not currently. The firewall brace for the pre 74 cars at least has a different bend in it compared to the 1st gen cars. I have not attempted to install this on my 74 or 72, but do know that there are some differences in the pedals. I know these fit 75 & up cars.

Pete at Fbody warehouse is helping spread the word and has posted the info at nastyz28.com. Click here to view the discussion.
Frame Bracket/ X-Member Support

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/framebracketrev1.jpg

Constructed form 1/8” – 3/16” thick steel. Designed to provide Maximum exhaust clearance for cars that have the body lowered onto the subframe (removed or shorter body to subframe bushings). User will need to drill two holes into subframe. A template or measurements will be included. Will accommodate 3.5” exhaust tubing.

Transmission cross member with threaded tube inserts and heim joints. Made out of 1.25” x 0.120 wall tubing

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/x-member.jpg

Firewall bracket to support Hydraulic master cylinder for the T56 hydraulic throw out bearing. Made out of 1/8” – 3/16” steel.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/firewallbrace.jpg

Hydro booster to second gen body pedal assembly adapter. The original part is from Pro-touring.com member ‘dipren443’ aka Nick. I modified the back side to conform to the late second gen firewall.

Rear
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/Hydroboostadapterfront.jpg

Front
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/Hydroboostadapterrear.jpg

All parts will be powder coated prior to delivery. If requested, they can be shipped bare metal.

[takid455]

A tangable prototype will be in my hands this weekend. I will post pictures of the cross member once I receive it. the production piece will be constructed from a single tube not individual peices as the prototype. I had to use 3 peices due to limitations of a manual bender. the production peice will be bent using a CNC bender allowing for tigherter and smaller diameter bends.

[elwaupo]

That would be great! Keep us posted on the results. I have a 69 Camaro, and a 96 T56, I want to swap into someday.

[takid455]

After a few design changes, I have come up with a cross member for 75-81 f-bodys to support the T56 transmission. The actual production piece will have a continuous cross bar as opposed to the 3 pc one pictured. The bar is 1.25” OD tubing. This is how the prototype looks installed. Working with friends of the trade, I was able to construct one for quite a bit les than machine shops which is understandable. Each prototype would be about $850 if I had production shop do one off pieces. This price goes down dramatically as quantity increases. The engine retains its 3 degree rearward pitch as well as the factory ¾” offset centerline to the passenger’s side of the car. There is approximately 1.25” above the 3” oval exhaust which has a 2.25” height, so theoretically, a 4.75” exhaust pipe would clear.

Some pictures showing what would be included in the ‘kit’ and what it looks like installed.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/1978%20TA%20%20gold/2008/t56x-member12.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/1978%20TA%20%20gold/2008/t56x-member8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/1978%20TA%20%20gold/2008/t56x-member7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v235/Takid455/1978%20TA%20%20gold/2008/t56x-member5.jpg

the heims are really helpful aligning the rear of the trans due to subframe imperfections. A seal prevents dirt and debris from wearing out the joint. All installation hardware is included as well as instructions and measurements. I will contact the production places this week to get production time and cost based on the final design. I have a few definites, but need a few more to bring the cost down a notch. I am anticipating final cost to be 275-325 per setup.