Converting 79 Vette from auto to manual
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2014
Posts: 145
Likes: 0
Converting 79 Vette from auto to manual
It's been a while since I've done anything to the old vette since I purchased a new Camaro. I have finally decided I want to turn it into a standard. Does anyone know the full list of parts I need, as well as an estimate price I'll end up paying for all the parts? Thank you!
Race Director
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 18,755
Likes: 2,589
have you looked at the complete kits for 5/6 speed which include transmission conversions from auto to manual
https://shiftsst.com/
https://shiftsst.com/
Racer
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 253
Likes: 42
From: Moultrie Ga
T56, hydraulic clutch! For sure.
Josh has a crossmember but you'll need to move (cut/weld) the e brake pulley on it and drill out the horizontal mount holes.
Josh has a crossmember but you'll need to move (cut/weld) the e brake pulley on it and drill out the horizontal mount holes.
Last edited by slofut; Jan 12, 2017 at 07:42 PM.
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2003
Posts: 3,585
Likes: 504
From: Indianapolis IN
Finalist 2020 C4 of the Year - Unmodified
C4 of Year Finalist (stock) 2019
To give you an idea on price, I've sold used complete 1980 BW ST-10 bolt-in ready set ups for $1800.00 which included 100% of everything needed to convert an auto car to a 4 speed. Heck, I even bagged and labeled every fastener or groupings of fasteners with specific locations to make install easier. Wiring for reverse switch, crossmember, and driveshaft was included as well.
Instructor
Joined: Sep 2015
Posts: 122
Likes: 17
From: MA
have you looked at the complete kits for 5/6 speed which include transmission conversions from auto to manual
https://shiftsst.com/
https://shiftsst.com/
I called SST and got the works with carbon fiber synchros, brass fork pads, and every other upgrade they offered. The TKO-600 kit is complete and well thought out. I think I would have upgraded to a CenterForce clutch as opposed to the generic one SST sent me. I had a T56 on another SBC car and just never saw the need for 6th gear. I guess as I was cruising past 160mph, actually never. The T56 is quite a bit larger than the TKO and needs more work to fit. You'll probably want to address your current rear-end drive ratio to get the most out of the new trans. Over-all best mod I've done.
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2013
Posts: 209
Likes: 41
From: Blue Point NY
call Jack at SST, I bought mine from them on the last group buy, maybe he'll set up another one if you ask..also the 10-10-10 plan made it easier to purchase by spreading out the payments, interest free. You get quality parts and you don't have to go searching for any little bits that you might not know you need..trust me it sucks thinking you have all the parts only to find out about some doohickey you don't have and then can't source it quick. That's the situation I'm in now converting my 81 to a convertible...wish Jack had a kit for that.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2011
Posts: 3,116
Likes: 598
It's been a while since I've done anything to the old vette since I purchased a new Camaro. I have finally decided I want to turn it into a standard. Does anyone know the full list of parts I need, as well as an estimate price I'll end up paying for all the parts? Thank you!
If you like a very light clutch pedal look at twin disc setup's. I originally installed a single disc and quickly changed to a twin disc.
https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...-corvette.html
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