Hello, I'm new to the website, but have owned F bodies for years. I have a project that I am about to undertake and need input before I do. This is what I have. 1984 Trans Am with a 350 ci GM crate engine, iron heads around 300hp. Factory 700R4 transmission. I am swapping out for a BW T5 manual. What is the biggest obsticle that I am going to face? What is the difference between the Non World Class and World Class T5s? Instillation wise are they interchangeable? I read in anothers post about needing to drill the engine block for a correct starter fit. What do I need to look for to determine if I will need to do the same thing? Any helpful input would be appreciated.

Thanks,
Joe-racer

 

83-87 is NWC.. Gears ride on solid shaft... 88-92 is WC...Gears ride on needle bearings....externally same...Parts internally are NOT interchangeable.. I dont know why you would have to redrill the block, you should be able to find a starter with the correct pattern...there's only to patterns, straight and staggered.

 

Thanks, yeah I don't understand why the other guy would need to drill and tap either. The GM PN for the crate engine that I have is 12496968. Which translates to a 330hp, 380 ft. lbs torque engine with a one piece rear main seal. It also gives me 3 flywheel choices, 2 of which I think will work with the OEM T5. PN 10105832 which is a 14 inch, 14088646 12 3/4 inch lightweight and 14088650 12 3/4 inch standard. I've read and printed the article"How to swap a manual tranny into an auto tranny F-body" and the "Everything we know about the T5". Is the factory T5 gonna by sturdy enough for this crate engine? Car will be used moderatly, no trips to the drag strip, but possibly some hard street / road driving. Will the T5 hold up?

Thanks,
Joe-racer