Hi all . I’m seeking advice on this swap . I’ve built this SBC 383 using a 1989 350 block and a Scat kit with the one piece rear seal. Here’s the problem. I want to install a manual transmission and the weak t5 isn’t an option.( car was an automatic ) I’m guessing with the one piece rear seal crankshaft I have to go with a lt1 flywheel? Which means I’m running a T56 transmission. The only other option would be a tremec two or tkx each of those will cost about $5000 for the conversation which is more
than what the car’s worth. I believe the lt1 clutch is a hydraulic pull clutch so again my only option going forward it the t56 transmission? Any input would be appreciated.thank you.

 

You don't need an LT setup. You can use a 1 piece flywheel w a 82-92 clutch and a QuickTime style bell like I did w my t56. The issues is it's not the cheapest way to go. It worked great though. You could to a tkx w a 4 speed style bell and still use the 1 piece flywheel and the 82-92 clutch. Either way you would need a hydraulic release bearing instead of a slave/fork setup. the hydraulic release setup opens up lots of options.

 

It looks like you make new threads instead of continuing your old one, in hopes of a solution that's not 4 to 5 grand and you're anti-T56 because of the cost. This is usually what people do when it's clear they're ignoring others who have already done what they want to do, instead of ordering parts. That's fine.

First, do reading on the different T56 types. The LT1 T56 is no the only option. It is the most bolt-in option for third gens. A push clutch can be used with it if you're price sensitive, a stock style pull clutch is 11" and capable of holding a 383 and the stock flywheel for an LT1 works. The LS1 T56 is a longer input shaft and deeper bellhousing. It isn't tough to use a deeper bell and use this. But it offers no advantage for your engine. The T56 Magnum is actually a TR6060. And requires a little extra work. But is a great option.

Back to your build. My friend followed my T5 setup years ago and ran a WC T5 behind a 400. He knows how to drive and not burn up clutches or grind gears, so he drove it and saved for a T56.I rebuilt and installed that and he still has it. I suggested that in one of your previous threads. Why? It works. It requires the least fabricating or nonsense, the ratios work with commonly available ratios for good drivability and the job is done. And if you go LS, there os a way to re-use every one of these options.

Do you want to spend hours and hours, or years to find the answer being denied you? Look up the 6 speed in the Nissan 350Z. The ratios have no advantage and you have to invest in a costly adapter, the driveline will need replaced and other details. But you'll at least have a bunch of kids on the internet telling you it's soooo strong compared to the T56. Yay!

Then, look up the Richmond 6 speed. I think those got bought out by G-Force. I actually like some of those (ratios) and the shifter is great. You may never find one, but at least you'll be one step closer to your goal.

Then, make sure the Aisin AX15 or one of the Rxxx Toypta names is in your sites. Another "Soooo strong!" option according to fans. Shifter position is truck-goofy as are ratios unless you find an old Supra one. And although *those ones have ratios you might favor, they have similar downsides to the Nissan 350Z trans. for fitment.

Just remember, no one is telling you the truth, and we're just trying to get you to spend money unnecessarily.

Happy shopping.

 

I haven’t figured out how to continue my thread. Anyway if I list this under engine swaps I get limited responses so it’s more of a transmission discussion! That said it appears the T56 is the way to go even if I don’t want or need the extra overdrive. Thanks for your help and suggestions.it’s very much appreciated.

 

You replied and continued it. 👍

As vehicles age, finding salvage / used parts gets tougher. Call a local salvage yard and tell them you're after pedals, trans. and bellhousing. Depending on budget, shifter, floor boot, flywheel, clutch and bolts. Because a used unit may need repair, don't overspend on used if new makes sense. Keeping a vehicle long-term makes decisions like this interesting.

 

For what it's worth, hawks does t56 swaps that come complete w all the parts. It's all used but they ship it all on a pallet to you.

 

Thanks for the info, I appreciate you for taking the time to write it in brief.

 

As was stated, an LT1 T56 is the most straightforward swap. There are other options as well, such as an LS1 T56, but there are some nuances to make that one work. Finding a good used LT1 T56 with everything you need to swap from a donor car is getting harder since those cars are pretty old now and if you do find one, most times the transmission is ready for a rebuild, clutch is shot, hydraulics are shot, etc. So, you'll end up spending a bunch of money refurbishing/replacing to make everything good and you'll be at that $5K number pretty quick. This is the route I went.

Hawks offers a T56 conversion kit with all new parts and a brand new Tremec T56 Magnum for $5,800. This wasn't available when I did mine, but if I were to do it again now, this is the route I would go.