I'm getting a 1979 Camaro that has a bad four speed transmisson. My son picked up a 5 speed transmission complete with bell housing and clutch fork from a 85 Z28. I believe that it is a T5.

What fluid does the transmission hold and how much? Will it last againt a mild SBC? Other than possible modifying the cross member, what else do I need to modify to get the trans in? Can I use the mechanical linkage that is in the 79 or do I need to install a hydraulic clutch.

I'd reall like to install the OD T5 trans as I plan on installing a 12 bolt posi with 4.10 gears in it. Believe it or not, the engine will be truning less rpms with the T5/4.10 geas in 5th gear than with the original 1:1 trans with 3.08 gears!

DuceNova

 

Bolting the trans in should be fairly straightforward; your existing crossmember should work, but it may need to be moved slightly. I don't know of any way to retain your mechanical linkage, but you could convert to the hydraulics from a third gen. Pattern it after any of the T56 swaps (similar hydraulics) you see in the magazines. It will probably require a custom bracket to mount the slave cylinder. The T5 is a light duty trans though, so if you have any plans to do anything but just drive normally, the T5 probably won't hold up. A T56 would be a lot better choice if the car will be driven hard. The T5s use Dexron ATF, guessing around 2 quarts.

 

Thanks for the reply. I understand about the hydraulic clutch but I'm going to look at hooking up the mechanical clutch.

As for the light duty of the T5, I've changed my mind about the engine. I was going to pull the warmed over 350 from my drag truck but decided against it as there's drag strip opening next spring. So, I have a fresh bone stock 350 that I'm going to use in it's place.

The main use of this car is to show and drive it. My wife dislikes the drags (she hates to sit and do nothing for 10 hours) so I decided to find a car that she can drive and we can enjoy together.

Thanks again for the input.

DuceNova