basic tranny question
 

ok, heres another try, (sorry if there are any reposts). I am planning on replacing my stock t-5wc, and I am trying to figure out what the difference is between the t-5wc, t-5 heavy duty, tremec, tremec 3550? I am leaning toward the 3550 because it is (at least advertised) as being heavy duty. I know that I would need to change the bellhousing for the 3550, and I have read that you have to alter the crossmember, how much modification is required?
All help is appreciated, trannys are my weak point,

thanks,
J
:confused:

The T-5 WC is stronger than the T-5 that came with your car. It has stronger components and a steel input bearing retainer. The Tremec 3550 is a better tranny than the T-5. It was originally installed in the 5.8 Cobras. The Tremec TKO is a better tranny than the 3550. I don't know what modifications are required to the crossmember to make it fit. Ford Racing sells the crossmember for $68.99 and it is part # 397-M-5059-A. You can get the tranny and bell for $1395 at http://thefordsource.com/.

Actually, all T-5's in the Mustang 5.0 from 1985-1995 were of the World Class variety.

1983-1984 T-5's were rated at 265lb/ft, and had 2.95:1 first gear ratios.

1985 saw the T-5 drop back to 3.35:1 1st gear ratios and an a syncro upgrade kept it's rating of 265lb/ft intact. These were considered "World Class"

1990 was the next upgrade, to stronger gears themselves. The 3.35:1 1st gear stayed the same. Rating was now at 305lb/ft.

1993 saw the Cobra T-5 getting a tapered roller bearing to replace the weaker needle bearings on the input shaft, and it also got phosphate coated gears. Up to about 315lb/ft.

The T-5 Zspec is rated at 330lb/ft. It features a tapered roller bearing, steel input shaft bearing retainer, and a 2.95:1 1st gear ratio.

As far as the 3550HD, you'll also need an aftermarket shifter for it as the stock one sux ***. Be aware, if you break it, Tremec will undoubtedly deny warranty coverage if you use an aftermarket shifter. They just released a BS statement saying aftermarket shifters are causing the Tremec's to fail. The TKO is much stronger than the 3550, but expect to pay about $2000+ for the total conversion.

I've heard an AOD car's crossmember works for the Tremec.

Thanks for the info, it confirms what I thought. I have a feeling that I will be going with the t-5z or the 3550. Your help is greatly appreciated,

Thanks,
J