What tranny for a....?

[Oddpac87]

What type of tranny would I need for the "new" Chevy 572. I plan on putting it in a '68 or '69 Camaro. I know it needs a 6 speed because of the raw power, but does anyone know from experience what a good tranny for it is?

[jonnyboy9012]

Hi, what you need is any transmission that will fit a big block chevy and also it has to fit your car, you really dont need a 6 speed transmission infact some 6 speed tranny's are weaker then 5 speeds for example look at the tremec nova 6 speed it is weaker then the 5 speed.If you want a good solid tranny i would recommend a tremec 5 speed for you 572 here is the link http://www.classicchevy5speed.com/ca...ansmission.htm. Good luck with your new engine.

[MrPbody]

Never send a boy to do a MAN'S job. GM TH400. For a manual to take that much torque, you'll need the Richmond. Not much else to choose from.

[jonnyboy9012]

Hahaha, nice play on words pbody. Well if you get the tremec they can handle 600 ft/lbs of torque just stock, now if you get the straight tooth gears they can handle a hell of alot more then that, to be honest ive always liked having a manual tranny, it lets you fell more incontrol of the car and you get to choose when to shift. But if you like an auto go with pbody.

[MrPbody]

Johnny,
Actually, I far prefer a manual as well. But the Tremec is rated at 600 HP. It doesn't live behind a 455 Pontiac with some "ass". That big Chevy will put out as much torque as the Pontiac, maybe more if the level of tune is raised (454s don't make the torque 455 Pontiacs and 455 Buicks make, and torque is the killer of transmissions). I have had some customers using the Tremec. It's fine for a small block, or a light duty big block. Not NEARLY as tough as the Richmond. FWIW, the Richmond is formerly known as the "Doug Nash". It's a racing trans, converted for street applications. BULLET PROOF!
The spur-cut (straight gears) version of the Tremec is strictly for racing, unless you're a lottery winner. A spur-cut gear will take significantly more load shock, but wears out much faster. Helical (angle) cut gears are much quieter and will give a much longer service life, but can't take near the power.
And, BTW, you're absolutely right about a manual giving you a better "feel" for the road. Actually, it gives a "positive" connection to the road, where the automatic relies on the fluid coupling (torque converter).
I suggest the TH400 only for toughness and reasonability in price. ALL of the manuals out there that can take that kind of torque, are BIG money (in excess of $1,500, plus attaching hardware). I speak not from brochures or reading websites, but building engines and having customers tear up drivelines. And they tear up a few! Especially the Pontiacs and big block guys. When an engine builder does his job right, transmissions and rear axles drop like flies.... (:-