Tremec stick-box question

[Schtauffer]

I'm at it again-- lots of talk, very little money-burning... right now I'm saving for a good stick-box for the Monte (or the Chevelle, IDK :-\). Been thinking a TKO-600 because of the close ratio gear set and because they seem very popular. I was messing around on YouTube and found some videos of guys complaining about them making noise and a couple of other places where guys were whining about Keisler's customer service. I have a bunch of time to make a decison, because it will take me a little while to save up the couple of G's it will take to buy one. I only have 350 hp, 500 on the juice, so it will take the abuse.

Who owns or has owned a TKO tranny? Would you buy one again? If not, why? Any other comparably priced manual transmissions you would recommend?

I am open to buying a good used one, if a good deal comes along...

[Brian Lohnes]

Re: Tremec stick-box question

This bad ass will be within a couple hundred bucks of a TKO and is engineered to be way stronger.

http://www.bangshift.com/blog/Bangshift-Approved-The-McLeod-M-800-5-Speed-Transmission.html

[Schtauffer]

Re: Tremec stick-box question

I was assuming that unit is out of my price range... what's the word on the price?

[Brian Lohnes]

Re: Tremec stick-box question

$2295

[min301]

Re: Tremec stick-box question

I've now installed 4 TKO-600's in late model Mustangs,
found all to be very durable.

I'd use it...

[TheSilverBuick]

Re: Tremec stick-box question

The Mcleod one appears to be priced to directly compete with the TKO's.

I have a TKO-600 in my Skylark and have zero complains about it, but I also am far from testing it's durability in anything but thousands of street miles. I really dig the .64 OD, I don't know of any trans short of a giant 6-speed that has a better Overdrive ratio. Many different shifter location options make it pretty versital. I have a pretty hard time sliding into 3rd quickly, but I've had that problem with all Ford 5 speeds (not so much with GM six speeds or import 5 speeds), and there are probably shifter options to help that, my shifter is practically 18-wheeler long :P

When I get a '69 Firebird if I don't go with an Auto trans I'll get another TKO (or weigh the Mcleod option), but for the higher rpm I intend on turning the L6 I may have to get the TKO modified (or again weigh the Mcleod option).

I bought mine off E-bay new with trans mount, C6 output shaft, the wiring pig tails, speedogear and current shifter for $1800 before shipping. This was about five years ago though. If buying off E-bay be absolutely sure it's a GM version and not a Ford version.

I don't know if it's for display purposes or actual production, but I did not like the external linkage of the Mcleod design for every day driving. I know classic four speeds have external linkage, but this looks more sensitive to dirt to me. The rails are greased so dirt and grim will build up on them, and what about rust pitting? Those were my concerns on that design. The trans minus shifter were overall a lot smaller than the TKO. I had to do some minor trans tunnel cutting to clear the TKO, the Mcleod trans might get away with just cutting a spot for the shifter and installing a 4-speed hump.

[Schtauffer]

Re: Tremec stick-box question

$2295

Yeah... maybe I should take a second look! I'm figuring the gearbox will set me back $2200. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/CMG-TCET5009/

Thanks for the input, Min and Randal.

[walt reynolds]

Re: Tremec stick-box question

I have a Keisler Viper T56 in my Camaro. They sent it to me in 2007 for Hot Rod's Drag Week. With 514 gears I needed some help. The trans performed perfectly in 2007 and 2008. This year I started to have trouble with 3rd and 4th gears. Before starting on Drag Week this year it had 3500 miles on it. Since I launch at 6500 to 7500 rpms, I think it has held up very well. I have heard that the 3-4 shift fork is a week part. I would highly recommend a 6speed for everyday use and occasional drag racing. If I didn't have a six speed I wouldn't be able to go on Drag Week.

[revolutionary]

Re: Tremec stick-box question

I've also used the TKO600 in a late model Mustang making 350rwhp (mustang dyno) before spray and it was awesome. It is a little different and takes some getting used to but bombproof.