Here is the dilemma. The Comet I'm going to build come factory with a 3 speed top loader. I want at least 4 speed or 5 speed would be great. It is known Ford's top loader is probably the strongest transmission in the world. My question is and I know some of you out there are running a T5, Will a T5 handle up to 400-450 HP without crashing?
I ran the T5Z in my signature behind a 347 stroker with a 150 hp shot of nitrous without issue. The tires would spin before anything broke. Of course there are some people who could break a bowling ball in a sandbox... Nowadays I'd be looking at a Tremec TKX. More compact than a T5 but it'll handle just anything you throw at it. https://www.tremec.com/menu.php?m=184
The aftermarket boxes should be fine, but don't plan on using a '80s/'90s T-5. Those could barely hold up behind the stock 225Hp GT 5.0. Yes I broke one.
Yes, stock T5s were weak. My T5Z was bought new in '96, after Tremec bought the product line from Borg Warner. They made changes to the BW design. The Z trannies have a tag number ending in -249 or -251.
T5's exist in many varieties from 4WD Isuzu's to late model Camaros' as well as Ford cars. Even in Ford cars the differences are extensive. . have fun . The T5 misnomer -"World Class' or WC vs NWC is simply the earlier and many GM non-world class T5's use Gear Oil and bronze bushings where later "WC T5" uses roller bearings and Auto Tranny fluid. Better or worse is debatable but '85 Mustang GT 'NWC T5' in my '63 just shifts a little harder until warm. . " Factory #218" T5 is basically same as aftermarket '251' with I/O shaft 'pocket' bearings and higher torque ratings than other versions. . P/u this trashed 218 core from supercharged Fox SBF - now in the Maverick ... (Parts are harder to get and more $$. ) . . . . . 'never learned to drive them automatic things' .
