stick with the t5
stick with the t5 
The aftermarket T56 requires an adapter to mate the tranny to the T5 bellhousing. This adds 2" to the length, which changes the driveline angle. To correct this, the tranny tunnel has to be modified and cut to sit the tranny up higher. So, if you want a brand new tranny, keeping your existing bellhousing/clutch/flywheel, and don't mind doing sheet metal fab, this is the route to go.
Aftermarket T56 Installation
The T56 from an LT1 is a direct swap with the T5. If you don't mind used, swapping out the bellhousing/clutch/flywheel, and spending the least amount of money, go this route.
LT1 T56 Installation
Another option is the TKO 500/600, which you will also be able to keep the existing bellhousing/clutch/flywheel. This holds up to high horsepower as well but only has 5 gears. Not a big deal unless you want that 6th gear for awesome fuel economy on the highway. I don't think the driveline angle issue exists with this tranny. This is also a brand new tranny and costs a little less than the aftermarket T56.
Aftermarket T56 Installation
The T56 from an LT1 is a direct swap with the T5. If you don't mind used, swapping out the bellhousing/clutch/flywheel, and spending the least amount of money, go this route.
LT1 T56 Installation
Another option is the TKO 500/600, which you will also be able to keep the existing bellhousing/clutch/flywheel. This holds up to high horsepower as well but only has 5 gears. Not a big deal unless you want that 6th gear for awesome fuel economy on the highway. I don't think the driveline angle issue exists with this tranny. This is also a brand new tranny and costs a little less than the aftermarket T56.
Last edited by calebzman; Jul 2, 2008 at 12:10 PM.
