I've recently come across a complete LS6 and a suitable 5-speed roller. The only T56's I have found so far are LT1 versions. How hard/expensive is it to convert the LT1 trans to LS6 mode? Or should I just wait for an LS1 trans?

 

Just get the LS1 T56. It's very pricey to convert the LT1 gearbox so it works. The input shaft and the mid plate need to be changed, and you just can't find them cheap.

 

and bellhousing, LS1tech is a good place to find the 3 parts needed to convert, also the gear box sells parts at a reasonable price and the kick back from selling the LT1 parts can reduce the cost tremendously, ive seen LT1 style T56 input shafts for $150, bells for 150-200, that offsets the cost pretty well.

 

save yourself the headache and find a good low mileage ls1 t56.....or better yet, if you plan on doing something different with the torque arm, get a mn12.

 

why? i bolted my stock torque arm onto my MN12 without any modifications....

 

i was mis-informed on the mn12, i didn't think they had a torque arm provision...must be just the GTO versions.

 

no, i have a GTO version in my car (2004)

 

4th gen f-body torque arm anchor mounts up perfect fit to the GTO M12 T56 I have.

M

 

sure does, i used to think it was different as well but externally, a T56 vs. MN12 there is no difference. Just remember though, if you use it and dont change the bellhousing to an LS1 type, the starter hole is smaller because the GTO's use a smaller high torque mini type starter, i opted for this since i can find them rather easily and it seems to start the car quicker but that might just be me, one disadvantage to using the GTO's starter is lack of supply and cost, the LS1 starters can be found cheap and used on multiple vehicles (cars/trucks/suv's (Lsx)) where GTO starters are 2-3x more expensive (i believe its a mitsubishi starter).

When I was doing my own swap research for a 6 speed i came across this website on the Tech, anyone who wants to use a T56/MN12/M10 or whatever should read this, very informative. Its a 21MB PDF so give it a minute or two to load, its worth it.

http://www.eecis.udel.edu/~davis/z28..._Fbody_T56.pdf

 

good info to know!