[blykins]

What do you mean by cutting the crossmember? Does your transmission crossmember not bolt up like all others?

The T5 is a nice transmission. IMO, it's one of the best shifting boxes out there. However, strength is not its strong suit.

If you have any power whatsoever, you'll break it if you beat on it. An A5 or G-Force box isn't a bad idea, especially if you can just order the parts and do the labor yourself.