T5/Tremec

Please bear with me on this page. I'm using an AOD in my swap and am using info from others to build this page.

If you have any information or pictures you would like to contribute to this page e-mail me

If you want a 5 speed, there are basically two practical choices, a T5 or a Tremec. The T5 came stock in Mustangs, while the Tremec is essentially an aftermarket replacement (I believe the Tremec was used in some Mustang Cobras). The Tremec 3550 requires a different bellhousing - the clutch disc and driveshaft yoke are the same. The TKO uses a different bellhousing, along with a different clutch and driveshaft yoke, due to different spline counts. The input uses a GM spline of 26T, while the output spline is the C6 of 31T - a C6 output yoke can be used,

The advantages of the Tremec over the T5 are strength and the availability of 3 different shifter locations. The shifter on a T5 ends up about 6" back from stock, requiring a new hole in the floor for the shifter. The shifter also interferes with the bench seat, since it is so far back. The Tremec offers a "mid-shift" option, which places the shifter very close to the stock Ranger location.

Below are some side-by-side comparison pictures (courtesy of Dave) of a Tremec 3550 and a T5 (which is also now manufactured by Tremec)

If you're working on a 4WD Ranger/Bronco II, there are adapters to mate the T5 to the stock transfer case. The 2000 James Duff catalog lists three different lengths: 26.75", 28.50", and 29.375" (referring to the overall length of the transmission). You would want to select one closest to the length of your original transmission. Since the Mustang used a mechanical clutch linkage, you will need to adapt a hydraulic slave cylinder.

Dave sent some more pics of a T5 with the S-10 short tailshaft conversion done on it vs. a stock T5. This swap could be a viable (cheaper) alternative to the Tremec, with it's specific bellhousing, shifter relocation kits, etc.

I summated information to someone in your club (Fairlane Club). It is funny that you mention the Ranger as the very first one I did was for a V8 swap. We even bolted on the stock shifter to the T-5 so no one is the wiser. There are many other applications that I am now getting into. Some are as follows. Sunbeam tigers, Hotrods, Falcons, other pickups and many more.

I also offer clutch cable conversions to allow the late model T-5 bellhousing to be used instead of the stock linkage and adapter plate. I do this for several reasons. One the old parts are getting harder to find. The cable is smooth, takes up less room, and is low maintenance. You can use all of the later model clutches.

In regards to the tail shaft swap it is best that I perform the swap as I have to make one of the parts to the output shaft that I am using. Not to mention the output shaft has to come out of the tranny to modify. Cost to modify the a T-5 with out a rebuild is $400 parts and labor. If you have the T-5 rebuilt during the mod the price drops to $300. Rebuilds (parts and labor) are $500. I warranty the tranny for six months on everything expect for gear breakage. For the shifter mod, I also offer a shifter upgrade of a Pro 5.0 shifter. It has a lifetime warranty, short throw with shift stops for $225.

I don't know if it was mentioned in the article that my company name is Modern DriveLine and that I offer complete 5 speed conversion packages or parts. I have T-5 cores here that I can pull from in case a customer does not have one.

I would appreciate any word you might add for me to about what I do as that is how I base my business. I will take a look at Fordranger.com when I get a chance. I am currently doing some R&D on other clutch kits and cross members. One of these project will be a clutch cable kit for Fairlines. I have one request already. I am in the middle of working on some Tiger pieces for two gentleman right now. I am working on a website to publish the products, articles and to profile customer cars. If you wish to reach me. My number is 408-265-8730 in the evening. Keep in mind I am three hours behind you.