T-56

[Hognuts]

Looking to upgrade Trans in my 57 Chevy. I am not making crazy power, just a naturally aspirated small block with mild cam. I am curious as to which OEM T-56 would be the easiest to pick up (budget in mind) that could be mated to svc utilizing mechanical clutch linkage and being able to maintain shifter location for bench seat.

I have talked to a few of the shops that sell kits, but they are pushing hard for the kit that includes the "magnum". Which would be great, but that isn't in the budget. What I would like to do is find a used one, build the internals myself and adapt to my setup. If there is already a thread for this or if any of you have input, it would be appreciated.

[badazz81z28]

I think you will find that a used T-56 (market price) and some parts/labor into it will dive close to the price of a new Magnum.

They do have an adapter plate out there that mates between a 4 speed bell-housing and the transmission to use mechanical clutch linkage.

[Hognuts]

That's what I was afraid of. I found a used one out of a 98 Vette for $1000, but didn't want to jump before I did more research on what it would take to shoe horn it in there so I could make a more educated decision. If it's gonna be similar money by the time I get it on there I would obviously go with one of the new "kits" made for my car, but if I could save a few grand and accomplish the same thing I would go that route. If the answer ends up being the magnum/kit then it will probably be down the road awhile and I will put a new gear set in my 4 speed and continue to run that until I can embezzle enough funds past the forensic accountant wife! :-)

[badazz81z28]

The corvette T56 will not suffice your need. It uses a transaxle/torque tube type of set-up. You will want a T56 from a Camaro/GTO/Viper.

[Hognuts]

That is why I am on here! That would've been an expensive lesson! :)

[Hognuts]

If a guy did find a great deal on one of the afore mentioned donor transmissions will the shift linkage work from one of the magnum kits, or are they completely different animals?

[Hognuts]

Talked to the guys at Anaheim Gear after reading some of the other posts on here. I think I am going to shift my plans to a Tremec 5 speed. Looks like a little more affordable and less drama on the install, and with the old heavy Chevy being a pretty mild build, should hold up alright.

[WSSix]

LT1 T56 would bolt right up to the engine but then you have to figure out what to do about the manual clutch. I think you're better off going T5 as you're leaning, too. Good luck!

[badazz81z28]

LT1 T56 would bolt right up to the engine but then you have to figure out what to do about the manual clutch. I think you're better off going T5 as you're leaning, too. Good luck!

I wouldn't suggest a T5 for any V8 application.

[GregWeld]

Hognuts ---- when deciding on a tranny choice -- look them up on Google etc and make certain you understand the torque ratings for them. The T5 has a couple different "models" -- one for low torque cars -- and another (WC version) for higher torque. However -- what you really need to know is what's right for your particular combo of engine power - usage (abusage... LOL) - tire grip etc.

I have a TKO 600 in one of my hot rods and don't like it at all --- it's not a nice "feeling" transmission and I will swap it out for the nicer shifting T56....

[BigJoe]

hmmm good to see you on here, i told you the magnum is the way to go... just saying :D but i would save the money and put it in your vette just saying :popcorn2:

I keep telling him to set this up
http://i83.photobucket.com/albums/j300/hardcharger_photos/10389560_10203266880503345_9211319039099575551_n_z ps1mjvs7gm.jpg (http://s83.photobucket.com/user/hardcharger_photos/media/10389560_10203266880503345_9211319039099575551_n_z ps1mjvs7gm.jpg.html)

[Hognuts]

I can't imagine the **** show that would ensue trying to shoe horn that big bastard in the Vette! That Muncie is cram-packed in there! :-). I'm sure it's do-able, but it makes me cringe thinking about cutting that car up! :-)

The 57' isn't a huge hp car, but I'm a little rough on everything I drive, what would be the point if you weren't! :-) The quote came in at $4800 for a new magnum with the kit and that made my ass pucker a little! I bought the car in the mid 90's for $3300! :) As it sits I probably only have $10-$12K in the whole car. I do want to make some upgrades to make it more driver friendly and maybe even take it to a track from time to time to "play", but I don't ever see it being a dedicated track car. I just want it to handle well, be able to take it out and play from time to time. ( a buddy of mine does some road course stuff up in Reno and from time to time he and his buddies will rent "track time", I think it would be a kick to do some "test and tunes" and see what suspension upgrades do for it and when things are adjustable see how those adjustments help/hurt handling and just learn more about how to set the car up.

[Steve@HDC]

Hey Hognuts,
Feel free to give me a call to discuss the different kits and I'm sure we can find you something.

[RLJ676]

This is very pertinent to my interests. I'd like to do the same w/ a used T56 as well, but there doesn't seem to be any complete kits for it. I'm guessing that by the time you fab up everything to make it fit it costs as much as a TKO600 kit w/ a new tranny.

Is a used T56 that much better than a new TKO600?

I've been getting quotes from all the kit folks, and it definitely isn't cheap. Does it add some decent value to a car w/ a 3 spd currently though?