I am having trouble installing my new aftermarket T-56 where my T-5 used to be. Do you bolt the adapter plate to the bellhousing first and then install the trans? Or do you bolt the trans, bellhousing, and adapter plate and then install it? Any suggestions? Clearance problems???

 

GofasterFirebird,

If you havent gotten it already, first bolt up the adapter plate the the bellhousing. Then put pressure plate, clutch, etc.. in, then lift the tranny in place. This is not a difficult procedure, but for your first time it gets tedious. Good luck and dont hesitate to ask any other questions you may have. Ive had the aftermarket t-56 in for almost 2 years, and I love it!!
Good luck, and update us on your progress,
Joe

 

How can I put in the bellhousing and adapter plate first and then the clutch assembly? Could you clarify? How fast is your car?

 

Sorry for being so confusing. First off, do you have instructions for swap? If not they might be available online, or maybe I can scan for you.

First thing to do is bolt tranny adapter plate the the rear of bellhousing (where t-5 would have bolted to), then install clutch, alignment tool, and pressure plate. Remove alignment tool, and bolt on bellhousing.(make sure fork and t/o bearing are seated properly and well lubricated) after bellhousing is up, lift tranny up and bolt in. Its that simple (easier said then done though) then you just have to put hyd system back in, put up inspection cover on lower half of bellhousing, install x-member, torque arm, and driveshaft. Fill tranny with fluid, install shifter, and take out. There may be a few steps out here, but these are the basics.

Since this is the aftermarket t-56 you will need your ds, and torque arm by a few inches, and fabricate a crossmember out of 3rd and 4th gen xmember.
If you havent gotten to do any of the above, email me. I still have the correct 3-4th gen xmember, and shortened torque arm and ds. I went aftermarket when I saved up some cash, but these pieces are still good.

I havent taken the car to the track yet, and wont till the spring. Im still working on getting my prom perfect for this application. Its a hella of a lot faster than the 305 though, so Im happy about that.
Later,
Joe

 

Well, it is in. My tranny tunnel was too small. I had to remove a tab on the trans and dent the tunnel a bit. After that, it slid right in. I think many people may have had a 700 before and the tunnel was larger. ? I have already installed a jegster torque arm which doesn't attach to the trans and purchased a spohn x member. And had my stock shaft cut down. Do you have capacities on fluid? I received no directions, did they give a break in period? Thanks

 

You may want to call the people you purchased from on fluid capacity. I think its the same for production t-56. I cant remember the numbers right now though.
Good purchase on xmember, Sphoons stuff reall kicks arss!
Good luck, and get some times or post any other problems you encounter.
I too had some clearance problems with tranny tunnel. All I did was smooth everything out under there, and havent had any problems.
Later,
Joe

 

The installation also requires a really big guy. Preferably taller than 6'4'', over 285, and benching 400+. Also, a Hacksaw and a large hammer are useful for beating the trans tunnel back and cutting a few cast aluminum tabs off the trans.