5 or 6 speed in a 66 Barracuda

[loumash]

I have a 66 Barracuda project that I hope to start work on this summer. The car started life as a 273/904 car . I already have a 360 core and an A833 OD, which was my original plan. However, I would now like to run a 5 or 6 speed transmission.

As cheaper option than something like the american powertrain conversion, I was wondering about using a junkyard transmission from a Camaro, Mustang or Challenger.

Has anyone one a swap like this with a T56, TR6060 or TR3650?

I'm not worried about cutting the floor as the car is a shell at this point.

I do wonder about specifically about which bellhousing, clutch and the input shaft spline count. I would assume that a T56 would be the easiest, but probably the most expensive option. Any input would be great!

 

[pishta]

the tunnel will need to be replaced, not even widened will work. Also youll need a new crossmember but the trans itself should not be that difficult to install with the proper adapters. Shifter location may be a little deep in the seat, measure twice.

 

[AJ/FormS]

If you build that 360 for torque, it will pull that that wide-ratio 3+1 with ease in the early-A. But if the cam gets to be too big, it turns into a PITA. I used it in my 68 FormulaS-360,behind my 230*@.050cam,for 1 summer,then I was done with it.It wasn't too bad behind a 223@.050, but that was borderline;for me.I got a couple of those sitting here taking up space.

 

[loumash]

The tunnel work doesn't really scare me, but you guys bring up some good points. I actually am considering doing a 408. That won't need big revs and would be big torque which might be ok with the 833OD and the 3.91s that I have. I'll have to put the ratios into a calculator to see. I have j heads but was considering going with an aluminum head. I don't really had a set comba as I bought this car along time ago and it has been on the back burner so long that in starting to rethink my original plans.

 

[ir3333]

if you are looking for efficiency,this is more complicated than it appears.Your maximum / most efficient lo speed torque must be your cruise rpm.Your cam,among other things should be chosen for your final drive ratio.
I know individuals who installed od trans with 3.91 or higher gears and mileage went down.
If you just want to reduce revs at highway speeds so you can run a 4.10 that's different.

 

[AJ/FormS]

if you are looking for efficiency,this is more complicated than it appears.Your maximum / most efficient lo speed torque must be your cruise rpm.Your cam,among other things should be chosen for your final drive ratio.
I know individuals who installed od trans with 3.91 or higher gears and mileage went down.
If you just want to reduce revs at highway speeds so you can run a 4.10 that's different.

For a streeter,I agree
With the 833o/d, it's kindof a balancing act,between too much starter gear, or too low a hiway rpm. If you build the engine with an operating range that is too narrow or too high,or have a heavier chassis, then it becomes even more critical to marry the powertrain right.

 

[loumash]

I'm not looking for mileage, just drivability. A healthy 360/408 should have a good torque, but with the 3.91s Id be concerned that the ratios are so wide. This will be a fun weekend car that might hit an autoX or road course, not a daily driver.

 

[66fs]

The A833 O/D will be fine with a 360 and 3.91 gears. Just use it as a 3 speed with O/D. I'd definitely try that first. First gear should be very quick with about 12:1 torque multiplication.