Auto-manual conversion?

[Haastriker]

I have a 79 vette with a 383 stroker and what I consider to be a dreadful 3-speed automatic. After I switched to a 383 stroker from the original L-48, I thought Id feel the change in power immedietly. A little. I can definitely tell the difference when the tach is at about 3k, just from the throttle response, but cruising down the highway at 65-70 mph is painful in terms of the 4k tach height and considerably loud drone caused by the side pipes which I figure equals to about 8 mpg. I want to switch to standard, for the fun and practicality and to maximize power to the ground and acceleration. Im unsure yet about a 5 speed or 6 speed. I have a total conversion kit by Keisler (PerfectFit) in mind but unsure whether or not I would be better off money-wise to get myself a good used 6-speed or T5. Any help or suggestions would be appreciated.

 

[Hib Halverson]

If your 383 is done right, no T5 will be reliable or durable behind it.

Also, if I read your post correctly, on the highway at 65-70, your engine is turning 4000 rpm. If that's the case, you also need to change the car's axle ratio.

 

[Haastriker]

Im not worried about having to change the rear axle ratio, would probably occur anyway. I had a built G-Force T-5 in a 1990 Mustang I had built and I actually really liked it so if I had to have one like it, thats fine. Im just looking for my most cost effective method and to get the most enjoyment out of driving it. Ive read other threads and the high tach reading apparently is nothing new. As far as the power output of my 383, I haven't had it dyno'd yet so Im not sure what its putting out. I was going to wait until I did the tranny swap as much as Id like due to work. Im assuming about a $6k budget for all parts and labor and would like to not have to buy a 'specially assembled' transmission as Keisler has to save on money. If anyone has done something like this, would be looking for recommendations as what to look at and if 5 or 6 speed would be better.

 

[SVO]

A T-5 is a internal shift rail and the shift tower sets farther back than where the shifter would be on a Muncie or BW 4 speed. Which means the shift lever won't line up to the hole in the console. You would be looking at major mods to fit one in a Corvette. Plus GM never offered the T-5 behind anything other than a 305 engine. They are weak transmissions. For a 5 speed, you are pretty much limited to the Tremic or the Richmond Street 5 speed. Both of those are tight fits in the transmission tunnel. I know of no 6 speeds that will fit a C3 Corvette.

 

[MIKE80]

I know of no 6 speeds that will fit a C3 Corvette.

I installed a LT1 T56 6 speed in my vette.

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