starting my t-5 swap
 

Well ladies and gentlemen, I finally got sick of my horrible fuel milage with my 4.11's, so I bit the bullet and bought a donor car for the swap,a 3rd gen f body with a mild 350, and a t5, which brings me to my question. with a swb truck, anyone have any idea as to the required length of the driveshaft? I know, I know, get it installed first, then messure the distance, But, I dont like vehicles sitting around, waiting. Id like to know before I start ripping things apart.
Subsequently, a 74 250, and 3sp will be sitting around shortly.
Thanks, Ben.

Re: starting my t-5 swap
 

No I don't know the measurement, however I'd recommend you not have a DS prebuilt until you are sure of the measurement. Most DS shops have a quick turnaround...especially in this economic climate. Check around and talk to recommended shops prior to needing the DS and get an estimate of cost and time to build.

Re: starting my t-5 swap
 

I agree get the stuff in and then get your shaft. That way you can measure length at ride height, compressed, and extended. I can get one built here in a day or two. Cost: a couple hundred for a new custom built, balanced, aluminum driveshaft.

Re: starting my t-5 swap
 

I know Brad did a nice write-up on the T5 swap, but do not remember if he mentions the length. Take a peek in the FAQ area for the article if you have not seen it.

Re: starting my t-5 swap
 

If your over 300hp you better baby that t5.

Re: starting my t-5 swap
 

X2... what year f body? the T5 was only offered behind the 5.0HO/5.0TPI motor i thought? something you may want to look into. the 5.7's were backed by the 700r4 or early th350... if i remember correctly.

Re: starting my t-5 swap
 

The T5 is a good gas mileage trans because it's so light weight and relatively inexpensive, but forget about hard launches and powershifts. If you just launch it normally and slide smoothly into each gear, it should last. The 4.11's will work in your favor since they are doing more of the toque multiplication thus taking some stress off the transmission and clutch.

Also, the T5 can be built to hold more power, and I believe the TKO-600 (based on the T5) is a direct swap and is very strong (600 lb/ft torque rated) if you want to upgrade later on.

Re: starting my t-5 swap
 

also if you dont know you would have to use a s-10 tail shaft so your shifter wont be in your seat

Re: starting my t-5 swap
 

Ive read the write up. The seat/tailshaft clearance issue is really only an issue when using an Inline 6 with an fbody tailshaft.
With the v8 mounts, the t5 sits closer to the front of the truck.
Im not building a drag truck, just a fun cruiser, and, as it is now with just the 250, she doesnt get any traction on a hard start, so, Im not too worried about nuking the t-5.
The motor is a later 4 bolt, modified vortec head engine with 800 miles of run time.