Which Transmission will give me the correct ? - Page 2

wolf k · #1 (**permalink**) 06-05-2018, 04:17 AM

A shortened input shaft is available for the TKO to fit the 6.3" bell housing so that you do not have to use the spacer. Not that I am pushing Silver Sport, but I am a satisfied customer. Click on the specification tab in the link below.

https://shiftsst.com/store/transmiss...ko-5speed.html

DanEC · #2 (**permalink**) 06-05-2018, 05:15 AM

Quicktime offers two bell housings for the FE - one has full, large bolt patterns around the perimeter and a wide flange - the other has a narrower flange and just a couple of small threaded fasteners at the bottom. I believe both are SFI rated but they may not be to the same standard. I have the latter and it barely hangs below my pan and the frame rails - maybe 3/8 inch. The other one with the wide flange hangs down considerably more like a Lakewood. This one would probably need trimming. I don't know if 289 Bell housings are the same.

66gtk · #3 (**permalink**) 06-05-2018, 10:45 AM

You want your oil pan and bellhousing to be roughly the same low spot on your car. Trim if necessary, but don't let the bellhousing sit significantly lower than the pan. With a mild 289 stroker, you may consider the TKO 500 as well. It might be smoother to shift. I just LOVE the old TKO in my FIA, but that transmission is no longer available. Sounds like you might want the 4 speed shifter ball, which is a nice touch - even on the 5 speed for the authenticity you are seeking. It also confuses people who attempt to drive your car when they look at the shift pattern and can't get it into reverse (:

Your next consideration is which gear ratios you want for the transmission and rear. Let the debate begin. Lot's of factors to consider (tire size, engine torque curve, driving style, anticipated touring miles on the highways, etc...) Or you could just say the hell with it and choose the 3.31:1 rear and get a Toploader mated to a rev happy engine like the stock HiPo was/is.

LMH · #4 (**permalink**) 06-05-2018, 01:54 PM

Most original owners I know tell me they wouldn’t change transmissions from the original 4 speed but it sure would be nice on the freeway if they had that fifth gear!
Larry