Hey all, I have grenaded my t5 and already have another to replace it but I want something reliable. I know that this issue has been discussed but I don't know much about the tko. What is the difference between the 3500 500 and 600? which one shifts the best and what parts do I need to install one? Thanks for your time guys.

 

If you type TKO swap into the search engine here, you'll find a wealth of info from other members who've done the swap. It's really a pretty straightforward deal, not too hard at all. Another good website to go to is Jam Performance. They have a page on their site that has a list of the parts needed to swap a TKO into a 3rd gen f-body. As far as the different models are concerned, the 3550 is the older TKO model. They all shift about the same. The 500 and 600 models have a couple of upgrades that make them stronger than the 3550's. The 3550 and the 500 models have a 3.27:1 1st gear ratio, and a .68 5th gear. The 600 has a 2.87 1st gear and a .64 5th gear. The 500 is rated at 500 ft. lbs., the 600 is 600 ft. lbs., and the 3550 is around 425 ft. lbs. IIRC. It's unlikely you'll find a 3550 model new anymore. They started phasing them out around 2004. Oh yeah, there's also the TKO 600 road race model, which uses the 2.87 1st gear, but has a .82 5th instead of the .64. The nice thing about the TKO's is you can use your stock T5 clutch/flywheel/bellhousing/linkage, etc. They also offer an electric or mechanical speedo adapter with them depending on which you need. You probably need the electric one with your Firebird, and it runs about $100. Driveshaft length stays the same, but you'll need a 1310/1330 conversion u-joint for the slip yoke since the TKO uses a 31 spline, Ford C6 style yoke. You can use your stock crossmember with the spacer kit they offer, or you can get a really nice Spohn unit. The factory shifter that comes with them is a billet unit made by Hurst, or you could opt for a Pro 5.0 for a couple hundred more. I've got a 3550 TKO sitting in the garage that I'll put in mine eventually, so I've researched this swap extensively. The TKO's are tough as nails compared to the wimpy T5's, so once you get one in your car, you shouldn't have to ever worry about breaking your trans again! Here's a link to that other website: http://www.5speedtransmissions.com/3rd_gen_camaro.html

 

Thanks for the wealth of information Pat you have come through once again. It looks like I will go with the Tko over the t56 I personally don't like 6 speeds nor do I need double overdrive. Eventually sounds like it could be a long time away maybe you would rather put that tko into a savings account?