'69 Buick Turbo 5.3/T56 Build
09-08-2013, 11:17 AM
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'69 Buick Turbo 5.3/T56 Build Well I am new to the forum, just picked up a rust free 1969 Buick Skylark. Doing a frame off build with Turbo 5.3/T56. Currently sandblasting the frame and underside of the car. I will then prime both and start the fabrication for the swap. I found a 2003 5.3 locally for $450. Now I am in search of a T56. Doing some research, I have been told to stay away from the older T56's and instead buy a Tremec T56 Magnum. I have been told that the stock T56's will not hold up with 5-600 HP 5-600 lb torque. What are your guys opinions on this? Also any more input or suggestions are appreciated.
Here is a link to a build I am interested in.
http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/e...2/viewall.html
Few pics from start of project.
Here is a link to a build I am interested in.
http://www.hotrod.com/techarticles/e...2/viewall.html
Few pics from start of project.
Last edited by 69BuickLSX; 09-08-2013 at 08:11 PM.
09-08-2013, 11:41 AM
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A stock T56 '98-02 from an Fbody should hold 600rwhp no problem. Beyond that the output shaft becomes the weak link. That being said there are plenty of people making more power than 600rwhp and them holding up.
If you have the $.... the Magnum is a better choice all around. It also shifts killer.
Basic T56 upgrades are a Stage2 build which is steel 3/4 shift fork, bronze pads, and billet keys which then rates them at 600/650rwhp. There are newer style synchros and carbon blocker rings in most builds too.
If you have the $.... the Magnum is a better choice all around. It also shifts killer.
Basic T56 upgrades are a Stage2 build which is steel 3/4 shift fork, bronze pads, and billet keys which then rates them at 600/650rwhp. There are newer style synchros and carbon blocker rings in most builds too.
Last edited by gnx7; 09-08-2013 at 11:51 AM.
09-09-2013, 03:37 PM
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Now I have also read that the T56's out of LT1's are actually stonger? And just takes a different input shaft and front plate to adapt to the LS engines? What do you guys think of these?
09-11-2013, 08:20 PM
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Well I bought a T56 today. Its a used LT1 unit including a short throw and pedals. So I will need an LS1 front plate and input shaft. But got a good deal on it and I've heard they are pretty strong units.
01-31-2014, 07:08 AM
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Little update. Hotside of turbo is coming along. Wastegate and pipe should be delivered soon. Now I am starting to look at intercoolers, pipe, and radiators to see if I can get it all to fit. I know my welds aren't the best. I have some cleaning up to do, and I am going to have the entire thing tig welded.
