The ZF8hp70 transmission fits better in my Cougar than the T56. I was able to raise the back of the engine about an extra inch, which actually improved the relative angle of the engine to the rockers.
This is the view on the driver's side.
and the view on the passenger side.
I used an 8HP70 mount from Holley and even recycled the transmission mount from my 89 Suburban project. I also made a new crossmember by starting with a Chris Alston Chassisworks Mustang crossmember kit. The new crossmember turned out pretty good, except when we went to install the exhaust, it hit the crossmember. :��:
I've had these little plastic bellhousing block off plates in my tool box for 15 years and I finally have a chance to use them. This one seals off the driver's side of the bellhousing.
This side loops around the started nose and seals off the passenger side opening.
I ordered a small Earl's cooler to use for the transmission and we found a good place for it on the side of the hood latch support.
My buddy Brian took this shot after we got the hood back on it.
Saturday afternoon FedEx delivered the blower belt and a few minutes later....
Tom handled the transmission fluid fill procedure while Brian shifted through the gears, which is required to fully fill these transmissions.
Yesterday I ordered a dual CV driveshaft from The Driveshaft Shop. In the meantime I need to permanently wire the TurboLamik and figure out a way to mount the BMW shifter. Ideally I would make a console, but there isn't time to do that before LS Fest.
Andrew