Installing new tranny this summer, not sure which one, help me pick.

[astronut1885]

Hey guys. My T5 has seen better days, so this summer I want to install a new high performance transmission. I can't really deicide which one to go with. I'd prefer a Tremec rather than a T5Z, but I don't know which one. Either a new TKO 500 or a 3550 are my options. I eventually plan to either stroke or supercharge, and I drive hard alot. I want a tranny that will take abuse and still last. Basically, I want to know which tranny will fit my needs, provide the easiest install, be cost effective and will last a long time. I don't really know what is required end to end for a Tremec install, so if you could enlighten me, I'd be most appreciative.

 

[TT91]

I jus got a killer deal on the X2C upgraded TKO 500 Trans(holds 850hp). Its not listed anywhere yet, but they are taking orders. The NEW units will start shipping next month. Check out my thread in 5.0 talk, "just dropped $4000+"
X2C had excellent customer service and all the right parts for a easy conversion. Just FYI, they are discontinuing the TKO 3550 transmissions, the TKO 500 and TKO 600 are the new replacements. Good luck, call X2C..
www.x2cmotorsports.com

 

[saniutza]

TKO is the way to go... i have 3550 right now and i plan to get a sc.. but from what i've heard it should last for awhile...

 

[astronut1885]

besides the tranny and the bell housing, what else am I gonna need? I just got a new clutch, so I'd like to keep it if possible. What can be swapped over from the stocker? Oh, and ideas on prices for the TKO 500? I think that's the one I want. All I see is X2Cs old TKOs.

 

[TT91]

if u ant a tko 500, get it through d&d performance. All you will need is a slip yoke, the bellhousing, and a NEW Clutch disc that fit the input shaft the new trans has. All of this will , or should be offered to you whne u make your purchase.the driveshaft is the same, but some slight modifacation will need to be made to the crossmember.

 

[astronut1885]

I just got this info on the TKO 500:
Ford Conversion:

The Ford versions (TKO-500 TCET4615) and TKO-600 TCET4617/5008) come with the following modifications to specifically fit your Ford:

late model Ford 26 spline 1 1/8” input shaft. These are the late model Ford input shaft, and ‘early’ Ford input shafts also available through from us (JAM Performance Transmissions)
Ford bearing retainer to allow it to fit right to your late model Ford bellhousing!
Ford bellhousing bolt patter to allow it to borlt right up to your late model Ford bellhousing!
Stock Ford transmission mount can be used.
Your stock Ford speedometer adapte will work with this trans, and an electronic speedo sensor is also available.
Note the Shifter: section below.
We also offer upgrades for FE and ‘early’ Ford applications, as well as 3rd Gen GM F-Body conversions.

So does this mean that the TKO500 will just bolt up no problem? I'm not sure what style imput shaft is on the car now, but if I'm reading this right then all I need is the tranny. My T5 is hurting bad after my dyno runs the other day, this project has just been moved to the front burner.