Big block manual trans......??

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magoo_oner

Master Mechanic
Oct 19, 2010
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Stockton
Ok so I was just wondering if theres any big block wagons on here that are stick I remember seeing a blue coupe a while bak so if any one knos of any threads I can check out id appreciate it im.just looking into what id need to change out to go wit the big block like suspension wise springs etc. and as far as going with like a muncie 4 speed to a t56 what wouldi need to make it all work
 
Converting my Pontiac wagon to a stick. Pontiac doesn't technically make a BB. But it's a 400, physically the same size as a 455. I grabbed all stock components manual components from a 79 Grand am. G body cars used a 4 speed saginaw. Not really made to handle BB power. The problem you will have is the shifter location on a saginaw is much further forward than a Muncie or Super T10 (I am using). So unless you can custom create a shifter some how it will be in the middle of your bench seat or if you go to buckets, you can't use a factory console. (it won't fit)

I guess after being half through my install I would suggest going with the LT1 6 speed set-up or even a TKO600 if funds are available. And make use of the hydraulic clutch linkage. The only thing you'll really re-use is the pedals. I had the Super T10 and I upgraded to an iron case and Nascar style mid-plate. Should be good to 600 ft/lbs now. But I have no overdrive. I guess I could always add a gear vender's unit if I want down the line. The 4 speed in-line shifter has been a b*tch to fit and requires custom linkage and top-plate for the console. I still don't know how it will turn out.

In short use the saginaw and stick with SB power or be prepared to spend $ for buckets and the appropriate hardware for a manual transmission that will hold up to BB power.
 
You might want to head over to either Maliburacing.com, or MonteCarloSS.com, and have a look at those sites. There is plenty of info on manual trans swaps, and there's probably at least 1 or 2 big block stick shift cars over there. If you look at the technical section on MonteCarloSS.com, there are several articles about swapping a manual trans, including the hydraulic clutch conversion, which should cover the T56 that you want to use. Good luck, and keep us updated.
 
THANKS for the info ill check out those sites
 
SafariWagon said:
Converting my Pontiac wagon to a stick. Pontiac doesn't technically make a BB. But it's a 400, physically the same size as a 455. I grabbed all stock components manual components from a 79 Grand am. G body cars used a 4 speed saginaw. Not really made to handle BB power. The problem you will have is the shifter location on a saginaw is much further forward than a Muncie or Super T10 (I am using). So unless you can custom create a shifter some how it will be in the middle of your bench seat or if you go to buckets, you can't use a factory console. (it won't fit)

I guess after being half through my install I would suggest going with the LT1 6 speed set-up or even a TKO600 if funds are available. And make use of the hydraulic clutch linkage. The only thing you'll really re-use is the pedals. I had the Super T10 and I upgraded to an iron case and Nascar style mid-plate. Should be good to 600 ft/lbs now. But I have no overdrive. I guess I could always add a gear vender's unit if I want down the line. The 4 speed in-line shifter has been a b*tch to fit and requires custom linkage and top-plate for the console. I still don't know how it will turn out.

In short use the saginaw and stick with SB power or be prepared to spend $ for buckets and the appropriate hardware for a manual transmission that will hold up to BB power.

i jus piked up a lt1 t56 for 300 buks from a buddy so ima b going that route. thanks for the info about the shifter location on the saginaw trannys it made me lean more towards the t56 now im on the hunt for the big block and all the hydraulic components
 
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