A Manual Transmission Manual

The new transmission mount is fastened to the transmission, while the DB Performance crossmember is trial fitted. Everything looks like it's right on the money. We're going to hang the exhaust next, and then install a new driveshaft.

We're inside the car looking upward underneath the dashboard. The clutch cable is shown connected to the top of the new pedal arm. A steel pin with cotter key is used to secure the connection.

At the other end of the cable, underneath the car, the connection at the bellhousing is shown. Clutch adjustment is accomplished by moving the jamb nuts forward or back along the threaded rod.

The completed installation looks like a late-model drivetrain in the '65 car. In fifth gear, the .63 final drive ratio in this transmission will knock off 1,000 rpm at the crankshaft during cruise. Rolling down the highway at 2,300 rpm instead of 3,300 will make a world of difference in fun, fuel savings, and reduced wear and tear.

The Tremec TR-3550 five-speed transmission is a good option for an upgrade from the T-5. The latest version of this transmission is Ford part number M-7003-R58 and costs $1,495. This transmission became known as the TKO when heavier input and output shafts were added. It's rated to handle 360 lb-ft. If you're stepping up from a T-5 to a Tremec, you'll need another bellhousing because the Tremec and T-5 transmission mounting patterns are different. We might add that we know people who can break a TKO running 14s, while another fellow is successfully running high 11s with a T-5 pass after pass. How you drive the car and use the gearbox will have a lot of effect on longevity.

In 1996, the Tremec T-45 five-speed transmissions were introduced for use with the new modular engines. Because the bellhousing pattern on the T-45 is modular only, it won't work with the pushrod engines. However, it would be a good choice for a vintage car with a modular engine conversion. The T-45 is rated to handle 375 lb-ft, so it's pretty stout. This transmission is plentiful in salvage yards, so you should be able to find a good one for a reasonable price.

For those wanting great durability and another gear above fifth, the Tremec T-56 six-speed transmission is the way to go. This gearbox has two speeds of overdrive: .80 and .62. It's the same transmission used in the '00 Cobra R and '03/'04 Cobra Mustang. It is available in the Ford Racing Performance Parts catalog with either a modular or Windsor bellhousing bolt pattern. This makes it a great candidate for installation into a classic car. The T-56 with the Windsor bolt pattern is Ford part number M-7003-H and has a list price of $2,250. Different aftermarket versions offer improved torque handling capacity. For example D&D Performance now offers a T-56 to fit behind a 289-351W that will handle upwards of 650 lb-ft of torque.