I got an 85 Firebird with a 350 HO (330 HP) GM crate engine (I think). It's currently running a 700R4. What would it take to convert it to a manual, and what type of manual could I use? (T56, T5, etc.)
Also, could I use a transmission out of a Mustang or similar?

 

Can't use a Mustang piece. Both the T5's are weak (though I'm running a non-WC behind my 350 HO Deluxe. No problems but I'm a Sunday driver). Best bet is probably a Tremec 5 speed or a T56. Search will provide the swap threads you're looking for.

JamesC

 

Any idea what kind of car (or truck) I can get a T56 from? I am looking for the fastest, cheapest (looking to do this for under $300), and easiest install possible. Also, any idea if I have to cut a new hole for the shifter, or I can just use the stock hole from the auto?

 

Your budget will be prohibitive (even with a forthgen JY transmission). As an example of some of the equipment you'll require, check the first link and note the prices:

http://www.spohn1.com/?action=shop&pcid=1047

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tran...ap-thread.html

JamesC

 

trade for a manual trans car unless you can find a complete manual trans 3rd gen donor carbecause you are going ot need alot of parts and have to take alopt apart

pedals assembly, clutch linkage parts



slave master cylinder, and parts


and you need to be very mechanically inclined and have a shop and tools and so on


no one is ever happy with what they have it seems, and manual trans third gen f bodies are extremely common



good luck

 

Well, for some reason I think that idea is scrathed for the time being, at least until I'm willing to spnd more time and money. (I only spent $300 for the car!){It did come with a blown tranny, though...}
BTW- do you have any idea if a stock 700R4 will be able to stand up to what I got, or will it probably die on me if I put it in? (Tried once before with this car, and the tranny went on first test drive. Mechanic friend of mine said it was because I messed up when I installed it)

 

Yes, if you don't mess up again

JamesC

 

Now all I gotta do is find the time to get it in.
Thanks a lot for all your help!
(I'm probably going to need a ton more when I actually get down to installation so I don't screw up-I really wanna use this car(It's been sitting for a year and a half!)

 

well if u like the factor of the shifting manually all the time, you could just put a shif kit in that requires you to do so that's made for an auto tranny.


good luck,
kelly