3rdGen_Newbie

Hello everyone I'm in a situation that so far trying to figure it out myself, has not done any success. I have decided to go with the 350 engine, simply buying a z28, but, I would like a manual transmission. My research has shown that no z28s came manual. So, I would greatly appreciate if someone could possibly give me some transmission solutions that could go along with my 350 engine. I'm kind of tight on budget and my goal is to reach 12sec or faster in the 1/4 mile, and/or 450 rwhp/rwtrq. Once I get my tranny choice I could then start researching my drivetrain modifications and then further to my engine upgrades.

Thanks for anyhelp,

Adriano.

TKOPerformance

GM never offered a 350 in front of a manual, because the 5 speed they were using was the WC T5 and it was only rated to 300 lbs/ft. of torque. The 305 made close to that, but the 350, especially a TPI made way more. They didn't want the warranty hassles so they just didn't offer it.

Fast forward 17 years since the last 3rd gen rolled of the assembly line and your swap options are abundant. There is however a downside, and that is cost. You need to figure out how tight your budget is. I'll give you some ideas.

WC T5 - Fairly easy to find in junkyards (you must use one from a 3rd gen though, the more common Ford version is not the same externally) Look to spend $500-$750 on the trans, bellhousing, flywheel, clutch, pedals, etc. The downside is that this trans will not live up to your ultimate goal of a 12 second 1/4 mile for long. You cannot powershift them or they will blow 3rd gear. But, it's the cheapest way to get a stick in your car. You could do this first and then upgrade the trans later. The benefit is you will already have a stick car, so you just need to swap the trans, or you can upgrade the T5.

T5 upgrades - Superalloy T5 with full rebuild $975 plus shipping and your core (good to 350 lbs/ft.). G-Force T5 Street Synchro kit with full rebuild $1,500 plus shipping and your core (good to 450 lbs/ft.). G-Force T5 Street Synchro with full rebuild and 4340 mainshaft $2,050 plus shipping and your core (good to 450-500 lbs/ft.). Add $250 for the G-Force Race Case to ensure up to 500 lbs/ft. All prices are approximate.

Tremec - $2,500 for a TKO 600 (good to 600 lbs/ft.) plus the cost of shipping, and any other parts that need to be changed (driveshaft, etc.).

T56 - $3,000 to $4,500 for a complete swap depending on how many new parts you use. Trans is good to 450 lbs/ft. in stock form, and the milage with the .50 6th gear cannot be beaten. I went this route and have never had buyer's remorse. It's a great trans and the car is a lot of fun to drive.