Curt got the T56 mocked up and we started the part that I had been dreading a bit...cutting the transmision tunnel. Its not that big a deal, but the dread comes from cutting perfect factory sheetmetal!
A T56 is a huge transmission, and the tranny tunnel in the Olds is unbelievably small. One would think any car that came with an optional TH400 would have plenty of tunnel clearance, but not in this case. BRP has complete instructions on where the cuts need to be made, to essentially "stretch" the tunnel to fit. A filler piece will be needed right in the center, and it'll take a little extra work in the shifter area, but nothing too difficult. I'll get some more pics as we start modifying the tunnel.
I had planned to take the entire weekend off (unheard of around here!), but decided to come in this afternoon and take care of a few things. Sundays can be the best time to get stuff done, with no interruptions. I welded up several trim holes, including the ones for the vinyl top trim and the decklid trim, and then cut out the rust damage on the passenger side quarter panel. I made a patch out of 16 gauge cold rolled steel (same gauge as factory, in this area), and began tacking it into place.
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