Hi, I'm new to your board but I have been moving from board to board to get opinions and tips on my possible up coming project. I have a 94 LT1 with a 4L60E. I have went through 2 of these transmissions in about 20,000 miles. I know I could always build it stronger and stronger but I don't really want to hear about that. I'm either selling the car as is, fixing the A4 and selling it, or putting a t-56 into the car. The place wants 1000 for a rebuild on the tranny but I would be throwing my money away considering the car is only worth 5500-6000 anways. So I would appreciate any tips and tricks from the guys who have done this or know people who have. Also it would be great to get some information on sites or speed shops where parts would be at the best price or if anybody has a used 6-speed sitting around with necessary parts. Thanks in advance.

 

Well, this is a fairly popular thing to do, and it isnt that hard to do. However, it isnt easy either. Pluse, getting used parts, you are probably looking at around 1500 for all the proper parts. So, you will end up spending a little more than just getting the tranny rebuilt, however, you will get the satisfaction of having a manual. So, IF you value your car for what it is, then I would say do the swap and have fun with it.

 

Does anybody have sources for parts?

 

IMO, I'd stay automatic if you're into drag racing.

You said you've been through 2 4L60E's in 20K miles? If you've only got boltons and stuff, I'd find a new tranny builder. If you're making a considerable amount of power, FLP makes a good 4L60E, or you might consider going TH350 or TH400.

At least slap a torque converter and some gears in it (if you don't already have them), along with a set of sticky tires and that should change your mind about ditching the auto.

 

I know that auto's are the way to go for heavy drag racing applications but I prefer the drive in a 6-speed car.

 

I did the swap. Got the parts off a friend's wrecked SS. It can really be a pain in the ***. The thing that gave me the most trouble was the pedals because i drilled the hole for the master cylinder too low, giving me all kind of problems.

There is a write up that everyone here goes by:
http://www.afrashteh.com/tranny_pics/T56.htm

Very good write up, anything you don't find there you can ask here and someone will know. You can also find places to buy parts there.

 

Another satisfied customer here! I used the same guide as above and it worked perfect. You really need to get passed the idea of it being a transmission swap and think of it as a clutch install. Besides the pedals and minor wiring, thats all it is.

Remove auto trans, torque convertor and flexplate

cut hole in car for shifter

install flywheel, clutch, and transmission

remove old pedals

Install new pedals

wire up reverse lights, clutch switch, etc. or just jumper wires for neutral switch

crank car


VERY easy. Take the seats out to do the pedals and its a cinch. I am 6' 3" and 400lbs, I had no problems with the pedals.


Good luck!