The T56 is pretty much done for.

I have about a 1000$ budget to work with.

What are my options?

Remember I'm from Canada, where 4L60E's cost 1500$ stock.

I could get a well built TH350 with a high stall for about 750$.

How much work is involved in moving to a TH series tranny?

 

If you can remove the tranny yourself and save some $, just get it rebuilt. Some people are going with stronger parts, such as Viper T56 parts, also when they rebuild. You should be able to get it rebuilt for about $1000. I had mine done for $900, but just replaced the bearings and the synchros that were worn/gone, and they also charged me the labor to pull the tranny (about $250-$300).

 

If your car sees much street time, you will not be happy with a TH350 and it's 1:1 top gear. This year, I am using a TH400. Even with 3.42's, it needs another gear for enjoyable highway driving. Once I decide for sure that I am going to keep the TH400 (still an open question) I will get the Gear Vendors OD unit. Nice, but heavy and expensive. In any case, there are costs associated with the TH350 beyond the tranny. You will need a cross member, tranny cooler, and shifter. And to get your speedo to work, you will need the right reluctor for the TH350 and PCM reprogramming.

If you can't DIY, I think your best option is to remove the tranny and find someone local who can take it apart and replace what is worn/broken. You aren't going to get a complete "rebuild" for $1K Canadian. But you might be able to do what I describe within budget. Another option: T56 from a wrecked car.

Rich Krause

 

I don't know about you but....

 

Maybe a 700R4 would be a safer bet?

It's not easy to find wrecked Fbodies around here. We don't get all hopped up on moonshine and go for a rip in the backwoods like you folks might

How easy is a 4L60E swap? All I'd need would be a PCM and some small accessories right?