46 T5 swap issues / questions

[Flatkid8]

If you decide to go the parallel rear leaf spring route, go with Chassis Engineering. I used their leaf spring relocation kit on my 37 and did not have to cut anything! everything bolted on using some of the original holes and the ones I needed to drill, the brackets became the template. If I ever wanted to put the banjo back I can! I also used Chassis Engineering's split wish bone kit, It had very detailed instructions and was very easy to do. I also used their 4'' drop axle and spring kit (and disc brake kit) The rear end I used was a Buick Grand National posi-trac. The width was almost exactly the same as my original banjo rear. My car is a pleasure to drive and handles GREAT, especially with Chassis Engineering's front and rear sway bars! My car is a EVERYDAY driver and I can dart in and out of traffic at 75 MPH all day long with no body roll! stopping is not an issue either! many people will tell you not to make the T-5 swap and keep the chassis stock and that's OK! I enjoy the stock cars too! but there really is no comparison between the stock suspension and the way it is now. And other than being lowered, the average person does not know any difference from stock!

Felix,

That is exactly what im looking for! Was it a big deal getting the bones realigned once you split them? Did you have to cut your tunnel to make room or did the T5 fit? Did you have to cut or trim the X if so how much? What did you use for an adapter to the bell?

Thanks

Dennis

 

[Richard in Florida]

The S10 boxes w/4.06 first gear are easily weeded out by checking the tag numbers on the T5. The tag is located on the driver side of the trans hanging on a bolt that hold the tailshaft to the main portion of the ******.

And if the tag isn't there, it means the box has been opened for some reason. Think twice about buying it.

 

[Richard in Florida]

Are the Astro T5s hard to find? It doesn't seem they would be too common.

Can't tell you how hard one would be to find, but they made a TON of Astro Vans.

When I had my T5 built, I asked if they had any Astro Van cases. They had three on the shelf.

In my '53 Victoria, the S10 shifter would have been WAY forward, and the Mustang box would have put the shifter under the front edge of the seat. And keep in mind that the farther forward the shifter is, the longer your shift rod has to be... and the longer the throw between gears. However, the Astro Van shifter is in the ideal location, as you can see.

By the way, if you use an Astro Van T5, just throw away the Mickey Mouse side shifter from the van and get a good used S10 shifter. It bolts right on with no modifications.

 

[Bassman/NZ]

Bassman,

I have heard of the Jeep T5 adapters to adapt to the torque tube...is this the same deal? If so is anyone making the adapter and if so how much to they run? I already have a couple Jeep T5's laying around that would make excellent candidates...

Dennis

Hi Dennis,
I dont know about the Jeep T5, but I know there are several threads on the HAMB about using a torque tube, and at least one that specifically addresses the Jeep trans.
Cheers,
Marty.

 

[Ol' Ron]

I love the T-5 and it will become a go-to for the modern Flathead, as it offers good performance and economy to very mild engines. AS for the T-170, I have one going into my International behind a 280ci STOCK Flathead. which is beilt for Vermont and economy+.

 

[40cpe]

Packyusmc,
I realize there are several different gearset options for the T5, but I believe the final drive although not exact is similar.

Dennis

Many of the gear sets with the really low 1st gear have an .86 overdrive ratio which could be compatible with your friend's 3.31 rear. See in the attachment that the OD ratios vary from .63 to .86.

http://www.britishv8.org/Articles/Borg-Warner-T5-ID-Tags.htm

Each case has to be tailored to the car/driving circumstances.

 

[HELENT]

Personally I used a T5 out of an early S10. No problems in mounting. Used 1 bracket from Bob Drake-65.00. Worked great for me, I love it to death. Dropped engine RPMS in over-drive by 500 RPMS. If you are thinking about going to parallel springs, I would go with the late model Explorer rear end. That way you will have disc breaks all the way around. I forgot to mention no floor board alterations or cutting. Just cut 1 hole for the shifter. Any questions just give me a call. Remember mine is a daily driver.