My T56 Build - Info to share

[Mikelly]

So I'm posting my T56 build because there are a few things I had to sort that simply were not explained in articles elsewhere on the interwebs.   

 

I started with a T56 out of a 2001 Camaro that a friend of mine had and sold me for what ended up being $600.  I did some research and found that if I wanted to improve some of the gearing, I would have to upgrade some important bits, mainly the the main shaft and both sets of 5/6 gears.  After much discussion with several NASA racers and some who build these transmissions, sharing of info on my specific car/gearing/tire sizes, it was decided to go with the bits and pieces I chose.  I went with the guys at the Gearbox.com for a couple of reasons... First and foremost, they have direct first hand experience using the T56 on VIR and in several platforms.  They also understood my concerns pretty well.  There is opinion on every subject, but before you smartest kids in the room chime in, my money is spent, my decisions are made, and I chose to make the decisions based on those who do, not those who type...

 

So what did the team at the Gearbox advise?  well...

 

Carbon kevlar synchros 

Upgraded Blockers

Solid Billet Keys in all 6 gears

Upgraded 3/4 shifter fork and bronze pads

Upgraded Mainshaft, and upgraded-changed 5/6 gears

The Basic overhaul set.

 

There is a ton of info over on LS1tech.com but there are a few articles online that helped me a lot... along with the manual:

 

http://www.thirdshiftstudios.com/T56manual.pdf

http://para.noid.org/~lj/T56/T56.htm

http://ls1tech.com/forums/manual-transmission/925032-t56-rebuild-how-write-up.html

http://www.hotrod.com/how-to/transmission-drivetrain/0603phr-tremec-t56-transmission/

http://www.techcessive.com/tech/t56/t56.php

 

 

And here is where I couldn't find any reference when rebuilding the trans... 

 

The pins that center the case need to be fitted into the two key slots, which is why it is important to get the shift rails properly set when setting the transmission back up.  Common sense, but without visual aid it's a bit of a pain in the arse...So I figured I would provide the images attached... hope this helps... 

 

the orientation of the case pins is when looking at them with the case bellhousing down and you looking from the TOP of the transmission. 

 

Realistically you could rebuild the trans in a day (and I recommend it).  I picked away at it and spent a lot of time trying to clean the case parts, as they were filthy.  I also had some health issues with my back and couldn't pick the trans up for about 5 weeks, so... It took longer than expected.  

 

 

I will add info on the plumbing for my cooler bits as I get that portion setup later on.

 

Mike

Edited January 25, 2015 by Mikelly

[Mikelly]

There are some specialty tools I have used: 

 

  Kent More J-39441-10

  Kent More J-39441-20

  Kent More J-39441-30

  ATD Tools 3056 Bar Type Puller/Bearing Separator set

 

I also used some channel steel on my 2 jaw gear puller to lengthen it enough to pull off the stock 5/6 gear main cluster.  You can buy that at lowes/homedepot...

 

I used a white plastic 6 ft. long table and just kept things reasonably clean.  When not working on the trans, I covered everything in a plastic trash bag.  Take your time, take lots of pics, video tape it if you can, and just be patient.  Transmissions aren't that hard.  I'm sure I'll have to pull this thing apart again, but to me, this was important to build myself for a change.  So if you're thinking "Can I build one myself?"  I say sure you can.  Here's the down side... If you're replacing the mainshaft and replacing some gears, you'll spend about $1200 total on that list of parts above.  Add the cost of the tools, and you might be getting close to shipping yours off to the pros to rebuild.  It boils down to what you are trying to achieve. I wanted to refresh my skills on building one, along with my Ford 8.8 rear, so I toughed it out instead of stroking checks.  

Edited January 25, 2015 by Mikelly