Exhaust vs Trans crossmember

[badhorsie]

Hi all.
I just bought a 97 Cobra coupe that has a reman T45 in it. The car place I bought it from had the "new" trans installed. The problem is that the mounting bolt holes on the "new" trans didn't line up where the factory trans did and the mechanic had to slide the (double hump) crossmember forward about 5 inches. While it seems to hold the trans well enough, the crossmember is about 1/16th inch away from the heat shield of the driver side cat and tends to make unpleasant noises when the engine torques.

I showed this to a guy at the Ford dealership and they said that it is a T45 trans, it is just not the correct body for a 97. My options are to get the correct trans and relocate the crossmember where it should be or to get an aftermarket cat system.

I plan to go the cat system route just because it is cheaper and it will help performance. I was looking at some on Summit but the actual cat seems to be in the same location as the second factory cat (which is doing the banging). Anyone have any suggestions?

Chris

 

[cradicg]

Sounds like they installed the wrong T45

If I remember correctly, there are two different types of T45s for the Fords. When I was looking for a new one, I called Smart Auto Parts, and the guy said I needed to measure something (can't remember what though) to make sure I get the correct one. Call them and ask for help @ 1-888-995-PART. Below are links to their Mustang reman trannies if you want/need another tranny (I found they had the best price and a six month warranty). Keep in mind, the T45 was replaced in 2000 with the Tremec 3650 (the T45s are not strong enough for aggressive driving). At a MINIMUM, get an aftermarket shifter with positive stops to save the shift forks. I believe a world class T5, TKO or T56 would be better choices if you can swing the dough (you will also need a new bell housing as the T45 has an integrated bell housing)

http://www.smartpartsauto.com/manual_transmissions_mustang_t45_2870.htm

http://www.smartpartsauto.com/manual_transmissions_mustang_tr3650_4014.htm

http://www.smartpartsauto.com/manual_transmissions_mustang_t56_4106.htm

As far a solving the problem with a new x or h pipe with cats, I think they will all end up in the same general location as the stock ones. Perhaps switching to longtube headers and a matching x/h pipe would offer more clearance (and more power!).