I've put my t5 in my 72 and I cant decide if I should modify the trans crossmember to lower the tranny, or cut into the trans-tunnel and raise the tranny. on my old '70 i made drop brackets for the crossmember, but it was a little wonky and my headers were too close to the ground. from what I understand the 72 should have a larger tunnel, and it does seem so, but not quite enough. How high should it be (in relation to an OEM ) for correct alignment/angle? I know guys make their own t5 mounts but dues the tunnel still need trimming? also if I cut into the support above the tranny will i need to reinforce it somehow? I'd love to see some pics if anyone feels like sharing.
Some have done T5 installs without tunnel mod, I swapped 3 OTT Toploader for T5-Z in my '74 . I started by measuring distance of tranny output shaft below body and fabbing a T5 mount to match : Modified original Toploader 3 spd mount to fit T5 Tunnel needed small amount of raising to put tranny center shaft at same level as Toploader T5 bellhouse with pushrod linkage fulcrum block mod; have fun
I think maintaining the correct...pinion angle...is the key. Pinion Angle Measurement - Quick Performance
Information like this is so much better to know BEFORE one starts buying stuff for a T-5 swap. The picture of the tunnel mod is a bit shocking at first, but the carpet makes it look like nothing ever happened. Nice job, and thanks for sharing.
What 71Gold said, make sure you get your driveline angle right. If your U joint angles aren't equal and opposite you'll end up with a driveline vibration which will never go away.
a Guy brought this by Harold's shop yesterday to check out a popping noise from the rear of the truck...
yikes mines not that bad, lol. I think im gonna just cut the tunnel, right now the driveshaft is rubbing the e-brake cable. it it needs to to go up another 2-3" to be correct. I only have room for maybe 1" without surgery, that would clear the the Ebrake but leave my headers a lil low still.
