Hi Gordy,
A few questions...
Does your friend already have the T5?
If the answer is yes, do you know the ratio chain? (it might start with 1st gear as 4.03 or some other number)
Do you all know what the ratio of the late 55-59 rear end is? The reason I am curious is because some combinations work very well and some don't work as well.
There is a good chance the late 55-59 rear end will work and the early 55 springs probably will work...might need a little adjustment fore/aft but no big deal. Please let us know!