I'm probably about to build a 406, maybe with a Procharger. I want to make about 500 to 600 hp and lb-ft of torque. Which manual trans would be best suited for it--T56, TKO, or ZF6? I would prefer one of the six speeds to help gas mileage. I hadn't even considered the ZF6 until I searched this board--is it a viable option?

Also, am I correct in thinking that I can use a T5 clutch with the TKO or the ZF6? Can I also use it with the T56? I ask because I just put in a new Centerforce Dual Friction for my current T5.

11/8/02 EDIT: My *** I'm embarrassed to have ever asked this. Now I've learned my lesson well: THERE IS NO SUCH THING AS BUDGET RACING.

 

600hp and gas mileage are 2 terms that don't go together.

 

lol yeah stephen i laughed when i read that, was thinking the same thing.

 

No joke. However, I'd like to see how far I can get with 6 gears and DFI. Any suggestions as to which tranny?

 

ah be man!!!!!!! put a "slip n' slide powerglide" with a brake and monster stall convertor! lol

 

Forget about that weak production stuff. If you're serious about performance drop in a Lenco if you really feel you need a standard transmission.

 

Man, forget I even asked the question--you're going to have me spending more for the tranny than I will on the motor! I'll just check out the cost of a built T56 vs. a built TKO, "figuring in" the future savings 6th gear can provide. The formula is still going to be my driver when the new motor goes in. Maybe I'll just have to be selective about when I have the blower belt on.

And yeah, I have to have my stick shift--the only way I would consider an auto in a car is if it was in a GN or TTA.

11/8/02 EDIT: Again, much embarrased to have written this. Oh well, everyone has to learn.

 

Richmond OverDrive 6 speed manual... I hear they are more or less bulletproof however, the price reflects that at a little more than $3000 I believe

 

Well, a lot has changed. Plans for the decent-power (and economy, lol) sbc became plans for a fairly hard core Novi 2000 or YS efi 408 sbf for my 88 coupe (already have the WS6 and my brother got a Z28).

I'm really just posting so that I don't get called out in the future for my ignorance in the past: we'll be going with a manual shift turbo 350 (or maybe 400) with a trans brake--sorry fast3rdgen, I'd rather have the extra gear down low.

manual valve bodies and ratchet shifters

In a few months, I'll be sure to post pics and timeslips--we'll see how far into the 9's I can get.


I still think that you could do a motor that makes decent power and fuel economy if you have a couple overdrives--sort of a cruiser that can run. On the other hand, I want to go fast.

 

If you are planning on 500-600 hp, a TKO would hold up fine. They are rated at 525 ft/lbs but rumor has it they will hold much more. Have you ever heard of anyone breaking one? me neither. Good luck, sounds like a hot car you are building.

 

Well, I'm planning on more than that.

No joke about the TKO, though. I have one in the Cobra and am not pushing it anywhere near it's potential. Check this out: this guy in Dallas is running 9's with a 3550! In that first link, there are some videos a ways down the page. He pulls the wheels off the line and on the shift to second.

http://www.corral.net/forums/showthr...ght=powerglide

dyno graph:
http://www.yerot.com/~aweil/andrewdyno.jpg

I would like to go with a TH350 with reverse manual valve body and trans brake. I may have to retract my statement in my last post, though; a powerglide with brake, man. vb does seem like a smart choice. Hell, if I want to shift, I'll drive the WS6, the Z28, the Z06, or the Cobra!

 

Not necessarily true. The 5 and ROD 6 speeds have a weakness, and it is most appearent at around 550 Ftlbs and a car that is capable of a good launch. The problem is that the cluster shaft is only supported on one side of the case. Under a good launch, and considering vehicle weight, the cluster will seperate away from the main shaft and it will blow teeth of the gear sets. Everything has its limitations.

I like the idea of a Slip-n-slide or a T350 with a rev man v/b and a brake. At least you'll be consistant. I did a 600Hp 502 with a T350 with the previous mentioned mods a few years back in a 3500# second gen and it has taken all of the abuse so far.

 

the tremec tko (i have one and i love it) is smaller and lighter than a 6 speed, has a great over drive, great lower gear ratios and ive never had a problem with it....and im making some good power. its also alot cheaper than a t56....only problem is mike forte is an *******

and to the guy with the lenco comment, lencos rock i wish i had one.....but why dont you try paying for one....and once you get it on the street i dare you to downshift lol...cause it aint happening. the ultimate manual that you can use on the street is a jerico, but no break on the price there as much as 6 grand!!!! for a road race 5 speed. ouch

 

My vote's for the TKO.
I've been researching trannies for a while, as my weak t5 is on it's way out (again) and the people I've spoken to are very happy with theirs, and they're making a bunch more power than I ever will.
-Rich-

 

There is a version of a Lenco, known as a JEFFCO that is streetable.

Lets just say, Lenco and JEFFCO used to be the same thing, thats about all I can say about that. But man they are spendy. I have even done a Lenco with a torque converter and some interesting valving and it was driven on the street........still a pain though.....

I like the TKO. The idea of a lighter trans and that it has been putting up with the power that some people have been feeding them is amazing.

I have put JERICO's in street cars, and they are picky little SOB's, you gotta shift'em fast, all the time......