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[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