Auto vs. Manual Tranny Predicament
 

Ok so heres my situation, Im currently looking (and have been for a couple months) for a 69 camaro. At first I was picky, but not Im realizing how hard it is to find a nice camaro. At first I DEFINITELY wanted a manual tranny, then hopefully get AC, 12 bolt, and a certain color. Im looking to spend $25-30k if I got most/everything I wanted.

After having a hard time, Im starting to realize maybe I can do without AC (maybe add a vintage kit later), as well as the 12-bolt (maybe add that or a 9" later as well) given maybe I can save upfront if these options are left off. My question is...

I am planning on dropping in an LS-based 402, 427, or something similar eventually anyway, so the 4 speed Muncie may not hold that kind of power (550 rwhp/rwtq), so is it smart to maybe just save a few bucks up front (and time searching for the right car) and get an auto, then just buy a nice 5 or 6-speed after I find the car? I feel like even if I find a 4-speed car, I may be replacing it before the new drivetrain goes in anyway bc of the power.

Thoughts?

About how much would it cost for labor for a shop to install a manual tranny kit into an auto?

Good question - how much would it cost to have a swap done. I take it you are not capable of making the swap yourself? That can make a huge difference in what it will cost to go to a manual from an automatic. If I were in your postion, I would get the names of a few local shops that have done this before and ask that very question. The answer will also depend on expectations - hp, planned use and so on because that will dictate the quality and cost of the parts needed to make the swap.

If the thought is to possibly buy a 350/350 stock combo car then do an LS swap, tranny and rear axle shop and pay to have this all done by a shop then you would probably be more cost effective in waiting until you find that car that is already built.

First of all, you're right in that a Muncie will NOT survive behind a 550rwhp/tq engine. The Muncie was designed to handle barely half that power.

I would also agree that you talk to some local, reputable shops with demonstrated experience. Know your budget up front so that you can set clear expectations. You've got 2 issues. First is just the purchase cost of the drivetrain combo you want. 550rwhp/tq is nothing to sneeze at, and that power level immediately restricts you to just a couple manual trannies. You need to realize that not even the TKO600 is rated for that, and neither is the Keisler RS600 IIRC. So, you need to start with the drivetrain so that you know what you're asking.

As for the actual conversion, you're really talking about a few things.

1) Possibly tranny tunnel modification to fit the tranny in the tunnel.
2) Crossmember positioning for an aftermarket tranny to keep the driveline angle correct, and then fitting a new custom driveshaft.
3) Shifter placement and installation/modification of the shifter hump
4) If it was a column shift car, nicely correcting the removal of the column shifter. If it's a console car, making sure the new shifter fits the console.
5) Pedal installation and linkage.
6) Clutch selection, fitment and adjustment. Hydraulic clutch can make this a bit easier.
7) Bell housing/scattershield alignment.
8) Speedo calibration.
9) Neutral safey switch, clutch safety switch, backup lights (any or all of these).