I'm looking to go to a WC T5 or a T-56 (94-97) and I have a few questions. I hear I have a mechanical speedo and boxes are expensive so if I get a new tranny would I have to either 1. convert the signal or 2. get a new electrical speedo. Does the tach need to be changed too? How do I adjust for the new gear ratios as well? Any tips.

 

Since you mentioned getting a new tranny (as opposed to a used one from a salvage yard), the aftermarket T56 is set up to run a mechanical speedo.

The production T56's were all eletrical as far as I know. You can get a modified tailhousing for them but it's another $400 at least.

Some T5's came with an electrical VSS where the speedo cable screws in but that can be swapped back to a mechanical. Direct swap on that. Unbolt the bolt and one slips out, the other slips back in. Strength "CAN" be an issue with some of these trannys. Some have good luck with them, some don't. Too many variables to predict if you would or not.

The 5 speeds from Tremec are setup for mechanical I believe, not positive.

The tach wouldn't be affected at all in a tranny swap.

 

Your car should already have an electrical speedo. I have an '86 Trans Am and it came factory with an electrical VSS. The only difference between the '86 VSS and the VSS used in later years is that the '86 has 2 plastic gears, one on the transmission shaft and one attached to the VSS, that spin to send the electrical signal to the speedo and the newer VSS uses a metal gear on the transmission shaft and a magnetic type of sensor on the VSS to send an electrical signal to the speedo.

If the T-5 or the T-56 comes with a VSS, you should be fine. Your electrical connector to your current VSS should plug right into it.

 

Thanks, I figured mine was electrical since I don't remember unplugging any cables like that during the engine swap. When I say new I meant new to my car, not a brand new tranny. I'll probably get a WCT5 unless I can find a cheap T56.