WC T5 options/opinions, break-in period?

[Heavy Z]

Howdy everyone, despite all my talk about how my nwc T5 has lasted so well, the day came last week when it finally tweaked a countergear bearing. I had just installed a 650 demon carb in place of my old holley 650 dp and was testing the new carb out. Sooo worth it, these carbs rock!!! I'm making the same hp 500 rpm lower in my powerband, judging from traction failure. That was the extent of the good news, the next thing I know I'm hearing bearing grind. Here's my thoughts:

 

1. Buy a G-force rebuilt wcT5 $1,600 + shipng.

2. Buy a new wcT5/lakewood bellhousing combo from summit $1,400 + shipng.

3. Buy a locally-rebuilt wcT5 with gearzone countergear stabilizer $850-$950.

 

Which way would you go if you had around 400tq and was planning a 75-100 shot in the near future? I'm going to move on this in the next couple days so thought I'd put it out there for 2nd opinions.

[Z-Dreamer]

Brett,

 

The WCT5 is only rated to 330lbs, but with 400lbs. you might be ok in a under 3000lb. car like the Z.

 

But all bets are off if you want to run 400lbs. plus NOS and sticky tires!

 

Get the G-Force and you'll never have to worry!

 

Mark

[Heavy Z]

Yeah, forgot the sticky tire part...I've got my eyes on switching my rears for some nitto 555's in 275/50/15.

[Heavy Z]

Well, I went with the wcT5 w/ countergear stabilizer. So far it feels good and I particularly like the .63 od instead of the old .73, 80 mph is now under 2,500 rpm. Anyone know how long I need to break this tranny in for?