Hey guys i have an 86 camaro z28 that i just recently put a 450 horse 350 in. The car currently has a 700R-4, which in my mind has to go. I am currently looking to search the bone yard for a third gen camaro with a manual trans. to swap my 700R-4 with. my question is is there a certain year i should look for, and just some input on the situation. Basically some does and dont's..

 

The 3rd gen T5s will not handle that kind of power. The 89?-92 T5s (World Class) were the strongest, but even those were not put behind the 350 TPI engines which had no where near your power levels. You should probably consider a 4th gen T56 or transmission built for performance applications such as TKO. If you are willing to stay off the gas and just want a manual trans, then shoot for a 89?-92. There are a couple of skicky posts that should give you the info you need regarding world class versus non-world class T5s. I can't remember the year they switched, but it was around 89 give or take a year. The next thing you have to figure out is which one has the gearing that matches your rear end and application combination.
I'm sure you know this, but jus for reference, the V6 trannies don't work with V8s without some troublesome adaptation (bellhousing & special clutch).

Good Luck