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How weak is the T5 tranny?


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I am in the process of building my 350, target range approx 300hp. I have a TH350 from a 77 vette but don't want to use it because of the whole 3000 rpm at 60 mph thing. I can't afford a t56 right know so am considerinf the T5. JTR makes the T5 seem pretty lightweight. Is it that bad, or will it handle daily driving with an ocasional 2nd gear scratch? Would consider 700r4 if I could find a deal on one, but I hear they are kinda weak too. Please help, if anyone has a tranny for sale, speak up. Trying not to break the bank!!

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Guest greimann

I have 50k miles on a wc T5, that has been behind a ~390 ft-lb motor, in a porky 2+2 ZX. You power goals should be well suited to a wc T5, which were in '87 to '92 F-bodies.

 

Just an FYI, it is torque that twists things up. HP is related of course, but when determining the strength of drivetrain components, you need to know the maximum torque they are going to see.

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Transmissions are torque ratings are kind of strange. The WC T5 is rated at 330 lb ft, but that is a continuous load for a 24 hour period. What kills the transmissions are shock loads. Speed shifting and clutch dumps with sticky tires. If you drive it like you own it and not like a teenager, a good T5 will last a long time. If it is already worn out, that's a different story. Check out www.gearzone.net and learn all about T5s.

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Do a google search for gear ratio rpm calculator and plug in your info. Some you have to know trans ratio while some have a drop box to choose from. Then you can enter your gear ratio (3.36-3.54-3.90) and trans specs along with tire height and that will get you really close.

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Guest Phil1934

After spending several $ on admissions to the Pull a Part in hopes of finding a $40 one, I finally gave up and hit the local yard and bought a WC for $425. Going rate is $500-$600. Usually gets you the bellhousing and slave too so not that bad.

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