Heah guys so last year I got my car painted, i'm currently in the process of tuning a chip for it after a 350 swap (tbi). What I'm really interested in is getting that pos automatic out and installing a 5 speed. What I would like to get is opinions what to go with. I have read some on the t-5 and a little on the t-56. My car is also a t-top so ill need some sub frame connectors and what not I know but where to start I dont want to buy something that gets thrown out after a manual swap. I don't have a lot of money to throw at the car at once, its more of a piece here and a piece there kinda deal.. What have you used or like/ don't like.. Thanks

 

If you go T5 then the only thing you can reuse for a t56 swap is the pedals so remember that.

What power levels are you looking for?

The t5 is weaker than a t56 but it is also cheaper. Because of this and a 6th gear I would go for a T56 but it is easy to spend someone else money. I have a T5 behind my 350 and it shifts a bit rough but I think it was run low on fluid at one point due to a leak at the speedo cable. I have an extra T5 I will install after that and depending on funds there may be another T5 after that who knows.


Look for a world class T5 if you go that route they are stronger. Also do not get a V6 T5 the gear ratios will be way off.

Sub frame connectors should be the same for both. I like my umi weld in connectors.

 

the t5 will live if you don't do clutch dumps and power shift. When my motor was stock the trans was fine, and you will want good sub frame times for sure.

 

So t-5 i can use the pedals and t-56 I can't? Approx conversion cost? I been working on late model bmws for awhile and most have a nipple already on the brake reservoir for the clutch, is there a seperate container i need to get or do i need to change the reservoir? Power level will be somwhere in the 200-300 hp range(hopefully once its tuned correctly). Anybody have problems with welding subframe connectors on and end up welding through the sheet metal? I have been doing some body work lately and ended up burning holes in a 75 c10 pickup and 93 integra on my welders loowest settings. Its a 220v mig working with flux until I get my tank. Also whats a good estimate on putting say, 3.73s in the rear if I went with the t-56. Thanks for the replys guys...

 

You can use the same pedals with both the T5 and the T56 but everything else is different except the drive shaft.

For 2-300 hp I would probably go T5 because I am cheap and it should last no problem. Just make sure you use a V8 T5.

No problems welding through the sheet metal here, but I would use gas for the SFC.

Conversion cost for the T56 I would guess around 1500-2000 for everything.

For the T5 I have seen used kits for as low as 400 check around the site.

I use 3.73 with my t5 the gears are a bit short I am thinking 3.23 would be a bit better but no real driveability issues.

Good luck with the swap.

 

Cost entirely up to you. I bought an entire running driving car for the swap for $1000 and sold what was left. Final cost was about $300 for a new clutch and hydraulics. I stayed with a stock clutch so I would burn that up before I destroye the trans. And with the stock l98 a hard launch would make the clutch slip..

If you plan on a t-56 swap later then save your pennies and just do that because it will definitely last and you can run that 3.73 with no problems.

 

What do you think of the 3.23 and a T5?

 

A 3.42 would be much better. I've had cars with 3.73/4.10 and it's just way too much to drive everyday.

 

I just drive it in the summer but I have a 3.73 with my 355. So you saying between 3.73 3.42 and 3.23 you would go 3.42

 

Yes. I try to drive mine as much as possible before winter. So that's my opinion from being in stop and go traffic.

 

I understand completely but my TA shares time with me and my 3 motorcycles.

 

3.70s with my T56 are a breeze. 70mph interstate driving at 1700-1800 RPMs and it's SO much easier to drive with those short gears.

T56 you can re-use the pedals and the console shifter plate, and that's about it.

But on the other hand... if you break a T5, you can get another for $300 and swap it in.

 

id say go with the t5, and keep money away for the t56 when you can afford it. t5s dont like 350 when you have sticky tires or dumping the clutch. i have 323 gears in mine and i need something else, car is fast but id say 3.42 or higher would be good. my t5 is holding up fine behind my 350 and its mildly build and i have a centerforce clutch. its lowered too with the lower of the 2 springs eibach has to offer, and has little issues with ground clearence, just my dual exhaust scrapes over speed bumps and my 255s up front rub in the driveway but id say go with that setup, and for like 600 tops for t5 trans and springs cant go wrong