I just recently posted a message asking if a T-5 can handle my engine (on my signature), and the reply was no. I don't have the money to buy a t56, and I was wondering if the 4 speeds that came on some 82-84 thirdgens were stronger than the T-5's, and could handle my engines 340-350hp. Thank you, and ANY info at all about those 4 speeds (gearing, etc.) would be appreciated.

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84 Z28 HO
62-67 327 block
new 350 crank
.040 overbore
461 double hump heads
2.02/1.60 valves
edelbrock perf RPM intake
edelbrock 600 cfm carb
th-350 tranny
B&M stage 2 Transpak
aluminum roller rockers
489 lift cam
7 quart oil pan
Keith Black pistons
screw in studs/guideplate

 

Well, some one said that they had a 4 speed that had the side shifter linkages on it. those very possiably could because they have a cast iron case but, all the ones I have ever seen were the borgwarner 4 speeds which will NOT. infact they would be weaker than the wc t-5 they use the same case. the t-5 uses the tail shaft area for 5th gear. and the wc t-5 is stronger than the reg. t-5

 

The 76 and 83 MM versions of the 4 speed are cast iron cased, external linkaged beasts. I believe they were only offered in 1982. In 1983 when they first offered the 5 speed, the 4 speed was changed to the 77 mm version (aluminum cased, internal linkage). This would be as weak as the t-5. The problem with the earlier 4 speeds is that they probably use a different length bellhousing, in which case, you'd have to custom mount your slave clylinder or switch the car to manual linkage (a severe PITA). If you don't have the money, then put in the T-5 and scrimp and save, the T-5 will last as long as you don't launch at every stop sign or run slicks. A 4 speed would be a horrible waste of performance, you'd have your new engine just to be able to top at probably 120 (even less without highway gears). If your T-5 can't hold to your engine, then don't build the engine, get a tranny, then save and build an engine.

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1984 WS6 Hardtop Trans Am
Former L69 Car under restoration
1984 T-top Trans Am
4-bolt main 350, performer intake, headers, Holley 650, T-5, hayes clutch, dual elec. fans and 3.23's.
Daily driver and restoration
13.98 @ 101

 

My 82 borg warner 4 speed is aluminum cased with external linkage. I bored my 350 out, put speed pro forged aluminum flat top pistons in, heavily ported 882 heads, gasket matched torker intake, edelbrock performer 750 carb, Ram air, headman headers 1 5/8 primaries, dual exaust, speed pro cam 222/222 @ .050" and .447/.447 lift . It seems to be holding up really well. I dump the clutch regularly.

[This message has been edited by Digger (edited March 29, 2001).]