[Towmaster]

Get a post October 2009 VE SS manual from your local damaged vehicle auction. You will pay less then $6000 and be able to sell off unwanted parts. Plus the post 09 will have the upgraded 6 speed manual the TR 6060 which is a whole lot stronger than the T56 in earlier models plus has better ratios. Plus the L98 has the good heads, with a small cam & valve springs will make 400hp at the tyres!
I did the same thing for the Rodeo. Wrecked VE SS ute cost me $6097.00 & I have sold off excess parts for $2100.00 so far with about another $400 to go with brake booster, steering wheel & radio etc still to sell. Plus buying a wreck you get all brackets, etc to have the car running. A/C is on its own belt so just take it off & eBay it.