Tremec TKO 600 in an e-body???

[cudadave72]

I've got an almost new TKO 600 out of my Fox body Mustang and was wondering if it would fit in my Cuda with the shifter in the stock location. If it will then I'm finding a set of pedals and moving ahead!!!

[GoodysGotaCuda]

"Stock location" as in you don't have to cut the floor?

Or "stock location" like more or less where the factory shifter is in the Y-axis, but you have you cut the floor for it to fit still?


For a TKO, you need to cut the floor. Just be sure that's what you want, they aren't known for being the smoothest shifting transmissions. You'll need to source the proper conversion components from the Ford gearbox, research or a vendor can probably get you there.

[cudadave72]

Thanks! I figured while I'm restoring the car I'd install a 4 speed hump. From what I've read so far the 5 speeds will clear. I just wasn't sure all the differences (if any) between shifter location between the one I got now and a Keisler conversion. I'm sure I'll have to round up some things such as bellhousing etc. As it stands now I've got $1500 in the one I got so I figure I'm way ahead of the game opposed to the 4k plus some are dropping on kits. Also I'm extremely familiar with these transmissions in the Mustang world and will get the gears recut to make it shift like it should especially with the power I intend to throw at it.

[Racer57]

I know nothing about TKO600.

But I have a TKO500 in my 70 Cuda. After spending a lot of time working with axle shims, I finally got the vibration out of it when I got over 70mph. (3 * down)

[cudadave72]

Thanks for the reply! Actually a TKO 500 and 600 are virtually the same. The only difference is the torque rating. A TKO 500 will handle up to 500ftlbs of torque and mine is rated to 600. Great info. Thanks!

[cudadave72]

Called Keisler this morning and for 750 they can do an offset shifter and modify the tailshaft so that it fits right in. Wondering if that's the best route or if I can by an offset shifter and modify it myself. At least I know for sure this will work one way or another!

[moprr]

I believe the stock shifter will put you right in the trans cross member.  I used a Chevy unit and that is where the shifters ends up.  Keisler and the other companies machine the casing to give clearance to the crossmember than they install an offset shifter.  It is the easiest  to spend 750 and not have to modify the crossmember.  If you purchase a offset shifter it will still interfere in that area.  I am not building a stock car so I left the shifter In the middle and reworked the crossmember.  I saved a few bucks but it was a lot more work and probably not worth the effort.  I did however enlarge the tunnel at the same time to give me more options down the road incase I don't like the tranny.

[johns cuda shop]

Called Keisler this morning and for 750 they can do an offset shifter and modify the tailshaft so that it fits right in. Wondering if that's the best route or if I can by an offset shifter and modify it myself. At least I know for sure this will work one way or another!

is Keisler still around?

[GoodysGotaCuda]

is Keisler still around?

I believe Keisler turned into SST.

[Racer57]

Called Keisler this morning and for 750 they can do an offset shifter and modify the tailshaft so that it fits right in. Wondering if that's the best route or if I can by an offset shifter and modify it myself. At least I know for sure this will work one way or another!

Mine has that shifter plus either they sent a different panel to replace where you need to cut out the tunnel at or the shop made one. Its small enough of a change that once the carpet is back in place no one will notice the difference. My tailshaft is about 1/4" - 1/2" lower than factory and can't be raised anymore without having to do major changes to the tunnel to allow the square top Tremec fit as high as the round top factory 4speed, which is why I had to compensate with wedges under the rear axle. FYI, the factory 4 speed driveshaft needs replaced also due to length.

 I have no idea if the issues with my car is the same with all others or not. But I do know that I do not regret it !!

[bigblue73]

There are alot of modifications that need to be done to fit in the stock location on an e-body.  Please look at this photo.  I can help with the cross member and roller pilot bearing and the cover over the shifter machining.
Are you handy - a machinist?

[cudadave72]

I'm a mechanic by trade and own a shop. I have friends that are machinists. I appreciate and info! I can tell by looking at your transmission that it's been modified quite a bit. Btw Keisler is now SST. That's who I've been in touch with.

[Rolling_Thunder]

what ever happened with this?