The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop What manual tranny w/ 350?

My original plan for getting up to freeway speeds on my C20 was install a T5 tranny along with a 3.90 in the rear. I just scored a 350 long block which I think will replace the 292. I plan on building the 350 for around 250hp. What 4spd or 5spd can I use that will accomplish what the T5 would have? Will a T5 from an S10 hold up mounted to a 350? I liked the S10 T5 'cause the shifter's only 7 inches or so back from the original and no seat modification would have to be made. Basically, I'd like my interior to appear stock and unmodded.

The T5 will probably work OK, as long as you don't hotrod it. A Saginaw 4-speed would be stronger, but you'd need to use a slightly higher-ratio rear end to get the RPM into a better range IMHO.
Jerry

Unfortunately, 3.90 is the best I can do keeping that big ol' H072 stock rear. And I kinda don't want to limit my power possibilities, say, if I decide to bump it up to around 300hp.

NV4500?

I read about the NV4500 last night. The bellhousing's different. Don't know if it'd work. I think the spline is different also. Anyone know if this tranny can be modded to work on a '75 350?

For the NV4500 trans you'll need the bellhousing too ,probably with the hydraulic clutch set up the 4500 uses.So long as it's a GM 4500 from the old design small block the housing SHOULD bolt up but check out the starter nose hole in the housing for fit.And the 4500 electric speedo drive may require some reworking, and 4500's are usually quite costly.Avoid the Getrag 5 spd used in full sized trucks from 88-92 or so,not the best.The 3500 NV OD trans from a 91 and up 4.3 S10 will bolt up the the small block,has a 300 lbs ft torque rating, should be ok.But again,the 3500 has an intergal clutch housing, you'll have to deal with the hydraulic clutch and speedo interface. Also check out the NP883(M6Y code) 4 spd od found in early 80's GM trucks, I run one in a 51, and Richard here has one behind a 292 I think.Some have a GM bolt pattern, some have a funky Mopar bolt pattern, but it has a 10 spline input shaft like your truck ,it's the same length as a Saginaw, 21 inches, and uses the Saginaw or TH350 output spline, so it should be a bolt in.

The T5 will work great and will last if you leave a few of the sparkplug wires in your tool box. If you bump up the horse power you will need a truck load of t5 parts. If you could avoid the temptation to use the right foot it will be great.