Let's talk Transmissions

[blykins]

I'm not a T-56 fan and never really have been. They are longer than a TKO, bigger around, and heavier. I have also never really seen a situation where you need two overdrives.

For a SBF making 425-450 hp, the torque will be down around 375-400 lb-ft. You have lots of options there: a TKO 600, a worked T5, or a Toploader.

The T5 and the Toploader are the best shifting transmissions out there, bar none. The TKOs are a little notchy, but better when they break in, and are even better when they are modified internally.

For a peakier engine, (read shifting over 6000 rpm), I would recommend the internally modified TKO 600 if you go that route.

Depending on the rear gear ratio and where you plan on driving the car the most, a Toploader makes a VERY nice drivetrain complement, and if you go with the factory 289 block/factory heads, the drivetrain would all look period correct.

I have seen more and more guys opting for completely period correct builds, especially in the nice cars like the ERAs, Kirkhams, etc.

[8litercobra]

I replaced a close ratio toploader with a T56 magnum. The T56 is big, but it fit in my Unique FIA with no mods, except modifying the rear crossmember for a different tranny mount. You'll have to do that with any transmission change. Also, obviously, had to mod the driveshaft

Rockland Standard built my tranny, and I have the 2.29 gearset. I wanted to get as close as possible to the toploader close ratio:
2.32, 1.69, 1.29, 1.00. I was afraid that a lower first would result in a first gear nearly like a pit gear. The gearset from Rockland is 2.29, 1.60, 1.21, 1.00. I'm happy with the result.....I can't tell much difference.

Since I was adding weight with the T56, I just had to swap out my iron block and heads 351W with a new one using a Dart aluminum block. 438", Kaase heads. I've been very pleased with that too.

Brent Lykins was very patient in working with me (I changed the setup more than once) to get the clutch/PP/etc I needed to make it all work (even though he isn't the biggest T56 fan!)

[fastd]

Originally Posted by 8litercobra

I replaced a close ratio toploader with a T56 magnum. The T56 is big, but it fit in my Unique FIA with no mods, except modifying the rear crossmember for a different tranny mount. You'll have to do that with any transmission change. Also, obviously, had to mod the driveshaft

Rockland Standard built my tranny, and I have the 2.29 gearset. I wanted to get as close as possible to the toploader close ratio:
2.32, 1.69, 1.29, 1.00. I was afraid that a lower first would result in a first gear nearly like a pit gear. The gearset from Rockland is 2.29, 1.60, 1.21, 1.00. I'm happy with the result.....I can't tell much difference.

Since I was adding weight with the T56, I just had to swap out my iron block and heads 351W with a new one using a Dart aluminum block. 438", Kaase heads. I've been very pleased with that too.

Brent Lykins was very patient in working with me (I changed the setup more than once) to get the clutch/PP/etc I needed to make it all work (even though he isn't the biggest T56 fan!)

what rear gear ratio do you have?

[Grubby]

I would seriously consider a T5 for a small block like yours.

The reasons;
1. TKOs have a mixed bag reputation. Google it. Some shift really poorly and I had two of them.
2. T5s have a great reputation for good shifting. They are not strong enough for big blocks.

The other problem with 6 speeds is the amount of overdrive. Most hot rod type engines can't run a low enough RPM to use it unless you are going 120 mph.

John

[Anthony]

Originally Posted by blykins

I'm not a T-56 fan and never really have been. They are longer than a TKO, bigger around, and heavier. I have also never really seen a situation where you need two overdrives.
.

They are an excellent beefy tranny for high torque motors where you want the best highway cruising. Perfect for the viper / vette / etc. especially if it's more of an everyday type of car.