I would like to put a T56 from a 1993-1996 F-body in my 1983 Camaro 5 speed. I was wondering if anyone on this board has actually done it and what modifications if any need to be done to make it work.

 

I swapped from a 700-R4 to T-56 in my '91...other than cutting a hole for the shifter (you'll just need to enlarger yours about 2") and one in the firewall (for the clutch master cylinder) it's a dead simple swap. You'll have to get a conversion crossmember from http://www.skulte.com or http://www.spohn.net (I recommend Spohn) and a conversion flywheel from http://www.centerforce.com but other than that it's a direct bolt-in. You can use a stock LT1 clutch on the Centerforce flywheel, or get an aftermarket one of your choosing. Make sure the T-56 has the torque arm mount on it (it's different from the T-5 mount) and borrow a Hayne's maual from a 4th genner to get the torque specs. You DO NOT want to over-torque the bolts. It's real easy to strip aluminum out and then you have to go buy a new bellhousing or something. I suggest getting new clutch hydros from GM (they're like $100 prefilled and bled) so you won't have to worry about the old ones leaking. Other than that it's just wrench-turning.....have fun!!

 

Oh yeah you'll also have to do something about your speedo.....the T-56 uses an electronic sender and your speedo is mechanical.....

 

i own a 92 camaro RS and i was plaing to switch in a stout 350. Ive been told my t-5 cant handle that so i was looking into the t-56's. Would there be much of a difference switching the t-56 into a 92 rather than the 83? Or would it be pretty much the same. Also, what would you have to do to get the speedo working right?

 

92 would actually be easier, since your car already has a hydraulic clutch. The LT1 clutch hydros will bolt right up to your firewall and pedals. And since the 92 has an electronic speedo all you would need for it is a signal recalibration box.

As far as the T-5 holding up to the 350...there are mixed opinions. It seems that some T-5's hold up well and others grenade the first time you pop the clutch. I would go ahead and drop the 350 in, and just baby the T-5 till you get the cash up for the 6-speed swap. You can expect to spend 2 grand or so on that conversion.

 

I swapped a T56 into my 91. I got the speedo calibration box from digital dakota, and the crossmember from steve spohn. The crossmember came free with my $400 torque arm.

 

Another option is the aftermarket Tremec T56 that Spohn sells. It uses all T5 hardware. By the time you buy a used T56, an overpriced 4th gen clutch, an overpriced flywheel that will work with a 2 piece rear main seal, and a speedo conversion box, you'll have as much invested in a used one as you would have if you bought the brand new one.