Instead of 305 5spd's. Always wondered why SLP started with an automatic Formula 350, ditched the engine and tranny, and cut out for clutch pedals etc. Wouldn't it have been alot easier if they started with a manual car? I intend to make my red/gray 91, a Firehawk clone with Firehawk wheels and tires, upgraded corvette L98 engine, Dana 44, and ZF transmission, but it would have been alot easier if I started with a 305/5spd, but couldn't find the right car.

 

Do u really have all those cars? Sounds extreem, but i guess if i had the money i would blow away Jay Leno's collection away with my intrests!

 

uh, if you look infront of my sig it says"gone but not forgotten". I had all those cars since 91'. A couple I've had 2 at the same time. Like chicks, I get bored and want something different, then wind up missing them later.

 

Drive a car with a ZF before you go through all that work. One ride around the block and you'll probably prefer a T56. I've got the ZF in my Corvette, and honestly, I'd rather have the T56. The ZF is heavy, notchy, hard to get parts for, and absolutely impossible for a DIY'er to rebuild. Right now they're cheap because GM released their left over inventory, but once those dry up, prices will shoot back up. There are only one or two places in the country that have the knowledge and tools to rebuild them, so a rebuild will run you $3500 or more.

The other drawback with the ZF is that you need to use the Corvette slave cylinder, which is the biggest POS that GM could have ever developed. I've had so many problems with my clutch hydraulics that I'm now forced to carry a bottle of brake fluid with me, because every so often I have to add to it. I've changed the master, slave, and even the braided hose so many times that I've given up and I'll just add to it once in a while.

 

Actually ALL Firehawks did not start with 350's #26 & #27 (The vert) started as 305's

It was probably due to they wanted to start with a native 350 car. That way at least the VIN would have an 8 instead of an F. Since 350 cars were NA with a 5 speed they came with the Automatic.

Just speculation.