[48 IDA]

Robert,
I would not say it is an in and out at least in a Contemporary. The
T-56 I have came from a 2003 Mustang Cobra. It will not bolt up
to any small or big block Fords with out adaptor plates.
The route I chose (keep my Lakewood blow shield) required an adpator plate, input shaft, clutch disc, and pilot bearing change.
Mcleods is able to provide you with all the necessary parts. Talk with Red Roberts on the tech line #714 630 3668, let him know what you want to do.
The t-56 is a tall transmission all the way back to the drive shaft.
The trans is about 3" longer then the top loader with the adaptor plates, although the shifter is in about the same position. I had to shorten the drive shaft from 10 1/2" to 5 3/4". The crossmember was moved to the rear 5".
Do a search, I believe there is a thread under t-56 Classic Roadsters. DV gives his imput.

good luck

Don