Tremec 3550

[seadevil]

Just ordered my MkIV and I could use some advise. I’m planning on a crate engine at about 330 hp. I would be satisfied with the T5 trans regarding performance, but I can’t take the shifter coming up from my arm pit. I want a top load trans and would be happy with a Tremec 3550 but apparently they don’t make them any longer. So it looks like I’m pushed up to at TKO 500 or 600. I would love to have either, but the price is starting to kill my budget. I’m looking for an alternative much closer to, or preferably under, $1000. I could live with a rebuilt 3550 with a warranty from a reputable shop, but I’m not too interested in someone else’s weekend project. Advice?

[riptide motorsport]

craigslist. or ffcars.com........parts for sale.

[michael everson]

I have bought many used tremecs with no issues. I see them a lot in the $1000 range
Mike

[AJ Roadster NJ]

Sent you a PM with a used one I found. I'm not connected with the seller and I have know clue as to whether it is any good.

Here's a pic of where the shifter lands on a mid-shift Tremec 3550. That's an extremely short Pro50 shift lever going straight up, this thing has a race-car-short throw. I know this is hard to see, but the shiny thing also on the tunnel is of course the e-brake.

Geez, this car looked naked back then, huh?

7574

Good luck!

AJ

[Mesa Mike]

I visited with a Mustang Perforamance shop yesterday. They told me the upper limit for the T-5 is 325HP. They sell TKO 600's for $2300, well above your budget. However, I would be cautious of buying a "pig in a poke". A $1000 buy on craigs list could turn into a complete re-build and you may be above the new price anyway. Also, check Summit's prices. I would strongly recommend NOT using the T-5 with 350 horses.

[Carography]

I visited with a Mustang Perforamance shop yesterday. They told me the upper limit for the T-5 is 325HP. They sell TKO 600's for $2300, well above your budget. However, I would be cautious of buying a "pig in a poke". A $1000 buy on craigs list could turn into a complete re-build and you may be above the new price anyway. Also, check Summit's prices. I would strongly recommend NOT using the T-5 with 350 horses.

I have read that the HP limits of the T5 is well above 325hp IN THESE CARS. Because they weigh 1000lbs less than the typical Mustang. Just what I read -my $.02

[edwardb]

Just ordered my MkIV and I could use some advise. I’m planning on a crate engine at about 330 hp. I would be satisfied with the T5 trans regarding performance, but I can’t take the shifter coming up from my arm pit. I want a top load trans and would be happy with a Tremec 3550 but apparently they don’t make them any longer. So it looks like I’m pushed up to at TKO 500 or 600. I would love to have either, but the price is starting to kill my budget. I’m looking for an alternative much closer to, or preferably under, $1000. I could live with a rebuilt 3550 with a warranty from a reputable shop, but I’m not too interested in someone else’s weekend project. Advice?

Three comments:

1. Have you actually driven one with the forward facing standard T-5 transmission setup? It may look a little strange, but it's really no big deal. The shift direction doesn't feel unnatural at all. Plus it is more authentic looking.

2. I've read about many guys doing a mid-shift conversion for the T-5 with an S-10 tail shaft. Don't know any details, but something to look at to give the shift you're looking for and still use a T-5.

3. The T-5z (or sometimes called world class) will handle more HP and torque than a stock T-5, plus the gear ratios are probably a little better. I don't think you would have any problems with a T-5z with your 330 hp crate motor. Also depends on what tires you're going to use and also how you're going to drive the car.

[carbon fiber]

after i destroyed my first t-5 in a nearly stock mustang, (i'm abusive) i bought a tremec w/ pro 5.0 shifter and never looked back. they will take all the abuse you can give 'em. the shift quality is far superior. (doesn't feel like there are rubber bands attached to the stick) the pro 5.0 shifter is awesome also. it has positive stops and has no "z" pattern from 2nd to 3rd gear. you can pull left and up for first, and then just row back and foward all the way to 4th gear. no more slow or missed shifts to third. best money i ever spent. p.s. t-5 will make a great paperweight if you have a really big desk!