T56 in a 67 convertible question

[daytonayellaz]

I was hoping someone here has installed a LS1 T56 in a first gen convertible camaro?? My question/concern is that extra bracing that runs from rocker to rocker and up around the tunnel--- From what i understand the shifter hole for the T56 ( using my existing 4-speed bell and clutch setup) is rearward about 4-5" from the stock shifter hole. It almost looks like that the bracing would have to be cut?? Anyone have any experience with this? Thanks!!

[youthpastor]

there is a shifter company out there- saw it in Popular Hot Rodding that can put the shifter up in the front plate in your stock shifter location- no need to cut the bracing- I am running an ATS crossmember- very nice piece- if you want extra bracing DSE offers a slick piece-Chris

[daytonayellaz]

Thanks Chris-- My car is now a column shift powerglide car, so no hole at all in the floor and no console. I dont mind the hole that I have to cut in the tunnel not being in the exact location as a car with original floor shift/console. I just dont want to cut the bracing in the tunnel area that is only in the convertibles. I may not have to, but it looks close.

[murtah]

you will have to cut it a bit. About 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch if I recall. Not much considering how big the brace is. Also, this depends on what tail shaft you have on your T-56. If it is a LT1 or LSX T56 then yes. Not sure about Viper, etc. Do you have the trans? if not, check out the new T56 from tremec. It can handle 700ftlb is a bit narrower and has the shifter 2 inches forward of a current LSX type T56. And it is 3k.

Just cut the brace a bit and box it in.

[daytonayellaz]

Thanks Murtah, I do have a LS1 trans now, but going to buy the viper trans... has the shifter several inches further forward.