I'm swappin from a 3.8 to an LS1. The t-56 was teh six speed right? How well do those trans hold up to abuse? by the time the 8 goes in, it'll be modded pretty will so that it's probably gonna be pushing something on the order of 500hp. I wanna make sure i can launch it without having to worry about my trans. What kinda internals need to get beefed up and should i send it out (where?) or just go to a trans shop around town. Thanks!

 

The T-56 the vipers use is already built for 500+hp, and though I would imagine a stock LS1 T-56 can handle it you could always just have it rebuilt with whatever parts make the viper tranny stronger. Go to T-56 rebuilds (one of the site sponsers) and check out what they offer.

My $.02

 

in factory trim the t56 is rated to 450# of torque...so it can take ALOT of abuse.

i agree with what jerm said...

but honestly...it's something that can be put off for a while...wait till it breaks. there are plenty of guys running 450rwhp with stock t56s.

you're gonna need a new rear end LONG before the trans goes out

 

The T56 is the single most destructive force known to the 10-bolt rear end. Teke said it, you'll need a 12-bolt rear before you have to worry about the T56.