T5 Conversion Questions

[woodscavenger]

I am contemplating a T5 conversion. I have a running 237 long block. I would like the upgraded gearing of a 5 speed. Here are my basic questions.

1) What is the best way to get a set of pedals? Can I just remove a donor set out of the S10 that I rip the T5 out of or is it more difficult than that?

2) Is it the same with the E-brake? Do I just take it out of the donor vehicle?

3) I have seen the speedometer setups at the auto parts stores and wonder if the digital speedos work with the T5. Are there certain years I want to steer toward or away from?

4) What donor vehicle should I look for? I have heard the T5 comes in a wide range of vehicles. I would like to take the tranny, drive shaft, rear end, and e-brake setup.

Any and all help would be appreciated. Thanks!

[MBF]

I'm not sure, but I think the t-5 conversion uses the existing flywheel, clutch(?) and bellhousing-so the existing pedals are kept. The kit is an adapter to allow the t-5 to be bolted to the flathead's bell housing. You'll lose the driveshaft mounted e-brake, but you've already addressed that by switching the rear. Look for one that the drum parking brakes. You'll have to fabricate some type of cable linkage for them as I don't believe you can put a shaft mounted ebrake on the t-5 without alot of engineering. Mike

[wayfarer]

You didn't mention what vehicle you are working on. Does it have a manual trans now? If so, pedals are in place. If not, then installing a pedal assembly from another vehicle will be a fairly major project in itself. Will you be able to fabricate new linkage? Perhaps use a cable system, or install hydraulic master/slave assembly?

Are you planning to swap the rear axle assembly for something newer? If so, then the E-brake problem is mostly solved. You will need to install a longer cable from your handle assembly to the new rear. The rear axle assembly that you install should be matched to the width of the car to minimize problems with the wheels/springs. Measure your stock axle drum to drum and start comparing to later offerings. Type into your browser: "rear axle width information". Several useful sites will pop up with measurements of many donor cars/trucks. You might even find something that matches your spring perch width/size. Also keep in mind what bolt pattern you have and what is offered. Do you want two different wheels on the car? Regarding driveshaft, You will likely need to have a new one made.

Some of the t-5 units have mechanical speedos, and, I think, the later elec types can be changed to mechanical with the correct pile-o-parts.

And you heard right, the t-5 has been used in numerous cars and small trucks. The application affects gear ratios, shifter location, overall length, (bellhousing) bolt pattern, input shaft design, and more.

Again, do a search for info. Hemmings (the magazine folks) did an indepth article on the t-5 some time ago and it should be required reading for anyone thinking of using the trans. This article will give a comprehensive list of vehicles using the t-5. Sorry that I do not have the article in front of me at this time to give date. However, do not abandon your info search until you read it!! If you truly cannot find it, PM me later.

Gary

[brian hood]

Hey,

Lou from Dublin Georgia had mentioned that he was doing this project. You might want to give him a shout.