I'm a new Chevy owner and I've recently picked up an '84 Camaro z28, with an aftermarket 350 engine already swapped in. I plan on building the engine to a 383 stroker for street use. My concern and questions come with the stock t-5 transmission thats currently installed. I've been doing some research and it sounds like the t-5 wont be able to handle the engine I have planned. What are some budget friendly options you recommend? I've heard Gforce makes some build kits, but it still doesn't help with the T-5's case warping. Ive also heard of swapping the trans to a TKO 600, or a t-56. What would be required in swapping a new trans into my '84 Camaro? Will a new crossmember be needed if I swap transmissions? And what options would you recommend?

Thanks,
-Pete

 

You probably have a NWC T5 the weakest of the bunch
All depends on your budget. Gforce makes an upgrade with a new case that is fairly strong ~$2200

For $2000-2500 you can do a T56 swap with a used trans that should hold up. You will need a special flywheel if you don't have a roller motor. You need a LT1 version. Other than that it is an ez swap get the proper cross member and bell housing

TKO 600 will be the most expensive and difficult but you she never have an issue. Check this thread
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tran...-5-tko500.html

If it was me I would do the swap install the T5, be careful with 3rd gear and don't put on tires > 235 width and then save for the swap you want while you drive.

 

If you don't use an overly aggressively clutch and drive like a sensible human being, the trans will be fine.

If you go racing, power shift and try some high rpm clutch dumps, it will go pop pretty quick. Usually when shifting to 3rd

 

If you're going to race the car, don't bother with a stock T56 swap. They'll pop too. Just get a quality clutch, a good shifter, and a BMR or UMI crossmember with a torque arm mount and rock on with the T5 until it breaks.