NvrDun71,
I just finished a T-56 swap on my 77 Nova. Not exactly the same car, but there are some things that I learned that may help you. I did not go with a full-blown vendor's kit, just read up on it, talked with my Tremec dealer, and went for it. Here are some things I ran into:
1. Pedals - mechanical or hydraulic throwout (I think mech. is cheaper, but hydraulic is easier to operate). Mostly a personally choice I think. Aftermarket folks (Classic Industries, Paddock, NPD, etc.) should be able to hook you up if you want mechanical.
2. X-member - I reused the X-member from my TH350. Saved some money there but it will take some fab work.
3. Clutch - gotta have it. I have a similar engine setup (425 hp small block) and went with a Centerforce unit. Set me back $270. You can go cheaper if you shop around. Remember those 26 splines.
4. Driveshaft - gotta shorten it. Local shop put new u-joints in mine, shortened and balanced for $115.
5. Electrical - don't forget those backup lamps. Sounds like a no-brainer, but there will be some $ involved in plugs and harness work.
6. Pilot Bearing. You may not need anything special on your TKO. I used an extended one on my T-56 (from McLeod) and it set me back $40.
7. Trans tunnel - not a cost thing but it is an issue on these Novas. I had to cut a pretty significant amount out of mine to clear. Your TKO may not be quite as bad, but get your torch/cutoff wheel warmed up - you're going to need it.
8. Speedometer - talk to your dealer about this. I was able to go with a full mechanical set-up on mine (using the same stock cable even) and that saved me some cash too.
9. Transmission - no way to get around this one. New Tremecs have a great reputation, but they also carry some cost with them. There are some minor differences from dealer to dealer, but you should really shop for customer service, because these are the folks that should have your back if something goes wrong with the tranny. If you have a local Tremec dealer, you might save some $150 on shipping/crating.
This forum will give you a good idea of who is good to work with from a customer service standpoint. I personally dealt with Forte Parts Connection on mine (and am well satisfied) but I know other vendors are out there who also do a great job on the customer service side of things. It's a sizeable investment in your car, so use someone you are comfortable with. If they are jerks on the phone initially, they probably will be jerks to deal with if you have a problem.
Good luck. It's quite a bit of work and research to do these on a budget but well worth the effort.
Jason
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