T-56 - Lateral-g Forums

Hognuts · #1 03-18-2015, 02:11 PM

Looking to upgrade Trans in my 57 Chevy. I am not making crazy power, just a naturally aspirated small block with mild cam. I am curious as to which OEM T-56 would be the easiest to pick up (budget in mind) that could be mated to svc utilizing mechanical clutch linkage and being able to maintain shifter location for bench seat.

I have talked to a few of the shops that sell kits, but they are pushing hard for the kit that includes the "magnum". Which would be great, but that isn't in the budget. What I would like to do is find a used one, build the internals myself and adapt to my setup. If there is already a thread for this or if any of you have input, it would be appreciated.

badazz81z28 · #2 03-18-2015, 03:24 PM

I think you will find that a used T-56 (market price) and some parts/labor into it will dive close to the price of a new Magnum.

They do have an adapter plate out there that mates between a 4 speed bell-housing and the transmission to use mechanical clutch linkage.

Hognuts · #3 03-18-2015, 03:44 PM

That's what I was afraid of. I found a used one out of a 98 Vette for $1000, but didn't want to jump before I did more research on what it would take to shoe horn it in there so I could make a more educated decision. If it's gonna be similar money by the time I get it on there I would obviously go with one of the new "kits" made for my car, but if I could save a few grand and accomplish the same thing I would go that route. If the answer ends up being the magnum/kit then it will probably be down the road awhile and I will put a new gear set in my 4 speed and continue to run that until I can embezzle enough funds past the forensic accountant wife! :-)

badazz81z28 · #4 03-18-2015, 03:56 PM

The corvette T56 will not suffice your need. It uses a transaxle/torque tube type of set-up. You will want a T56 from a Camaro/GTO/Viper.

Hognuts · #5 03-18-2015, 04:14 PM

That is why I am on here! That would've been an expensive lesson!

Hognuts · #6 03-18-2015, 04:17 PM

If a guy did find a great deal on one of the afore mentioned donor transmissions will the shift linkage work from one of the magnum kits, or are they completely different animals?

Hognuts · #7 03-18-2015, 07:19 PM

Talked to the guys at Anaheim Gear after reading some of the other posts on here. I think I am going to shift my plans to a Tremec 5 speed. Looks like a little more affordable and less drama on the install, and with the old heavy Chevy being a pretty mild build, should hold up alright.

**WSSix** · #8 03-19-2015, 08:11 AM

LT1 T56 would bolt right up to the engine but then you have to figure out what to do about the manual clutch. I think you're better off going T5 as you're leaning, too. Good luck!

badazz81z28 · #9 03-19-2015, 11:48 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WSSix

LT1 T56 would bolt right up to the engine but then you have to figure out what to do about the manual clutch. I think you're better off going T5 as you're leaning, too. Good luck!

I wouldn't suggest a T5 for any V8 application.

**GregWeld** · #10 03-19-2015, 02:43 PM

Hognuts ---- when deciding on a tranny choice -- look them up on Google etc and make certain you understand the torque ratings for them. The T5 has a couple different "models" -- one for low torque cars -- and another (WC version) for higher torque. However -- what you really need to know is what's right for your particular combo of engine power - usage (abusage... LOL) - tire grip etc.

I have a TKO 600 in one of my hot rods and don't like it at all --- it's not a nice "feeling" transmission and I will swap it out for the nicer shifting T56....