Hey all, been browsing the site for a few weeks after purchasing an 89 rs. I really wanna do a 350 swap, older carbureted engine, and want to keep it a standard trans. So my question is what are my options that aren't going to cost me an arm and a leg? Was thinking maybe an older 4 speed as the newer 6 is a little more then the wife will let me spend, but I'm not sure where to start. Any help and info would be greatly appreciated.

 

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tech...formation.html




1st need to work out how you are going to mount the torque arm with a non 3rd gen trans

you might be able to use a aftermarket TH350 or TH400 cross member depending on 4 spd trans mount location
http://www.umiperformance.com/catalo...bdq3liis264de1

http://umiperformance.com/catalog/in...roducts_id=300

Then there is this
http://www.spohn.net/shop/1982-1992-...nsmission.html

 

If you want to keep a manual trans (I assume you have one now) you can use the T5 you have in there already...... depending on what you're looking to do with the car. It's not the best option, but on a budget, it will absolutely work. All you will need is a V8 bellhousing, flywheel and pressure plate. Then get a 14 spline clutch disc. http://www.speedwaymotors.com/Flathe...ion,38143.html

 

Updated my profile.

So i really don't know how I would adapt a non 3rd gen trans to bolt up a torque arm, will start looking into that. I was just hoping there would be some other option that would require less money the a t56 swap.

If not then I guess I will have to go auto or stick with the t5 until it decides to let go.

 

So GOOGLE is your friend
A basic search shows T10 / Muncie / Saginaw all are 23" from bellhousing to trans mount

A T700 is 22 1/2" so a aftermarket T700 crossmember with torque arm mount would come close if you slotted the trans mount holes

Spohn actually offer a T10/ Muncie crossmember , click on the trans type option box

http://www.spohn.net/shop/1982-1992-...GM-F-Body.html

 

Well after a fair bit of research and pricing out parts I guess I am just going to save up and do the t56 swap. Thanks for all the helpful links and info.