I came across an article today about the Borg-Warner T56.
Here are some excerpts since much of it applies to Chevs
and Fords.
The aftermarket version of the T56 6-speed works with a push-
style clutch. Its roughly the same size as a T5 (5-speed),
but bigger than what was available in an '81 El Camino. It
fits without creative floorboard bashing. It comes with
a 5/16" adapter plate and has a 4-bolt pattern instead of
the 8-bolt pattern used on the OEM T56.
It is capable of handling much more torque than the T5
and stronger than the ZF which is used in the Corvette.
There is nothing else available on the Viper because
nothing else will hold up. Torque rating is based on
the application of peak torque for a sustained 24-hr
period.
The aftermarket version was designed to replace the T5 in
'82-'92 Camaros and Firebirds.
There is no Chysler aftermarket version. However, redrilling
the bolt pattern in the adapter plate that comes with the
GM version does make it useable in a variety of applications.
The concern for Mopar users is whether the input shaft is
the right length to work with their clutch housing.
OE vs Aftermarket
A used 6-speed out of a junked '93 or later Camaro/Firebird
is about $700 while a new T56 is about $1,800.
The speedometer cable hookup is a major difference between the
OEM trans and the aftermarket unit. A conversion kit exits
but it cost more than $600.
The Viper comes with the following ratios: 2.66:1, 1.78:1, 1.30:1,
1.00:1, 0.74:1 and 0.50:1. The aftermarket primary gears are
evenly spaced and provide the multiplication necessary to move
the load smartly off the mark. The top two overdrive ratios readily
accommodate a relatively short axle (3.73, 4.10 or deeper).
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