FE Blocks & TKO 500/600

PaulProe · #1 (**permalink**) 09-04-2006, 07:09 PM

Today I learned there are some issues mounting a Tremec TKO behind a FE Block (Thanks for the tip, Tom).

In a nut shell, if I understood correctly, with an FE Block, you need to use a short input shaft on the transmission, you also need to specify the splines, whether 10 or 26. But then, you still need to use a disc with a reversed hub or when the clutch is engaged, you get metal pieces.

I did a quick search but am not coming up with the answers in one spot. I did find a lot of "call Mike Forte" but I want to learn just what is involved and the correct way to do it.

Can anyone expand more on this, identifying Mfg's and part numbers of what you used

My intentions are FE block on one end, a Tremec TKO on the other, but up in the air over what I need in the middle.

Thanks

Paul

Cashburn · #2 (**permalink**) 09-04-2006, 07:11 PM

Head over to the Gessford Machine Web site. Look at one of the build logs for an FE / TKO setup and it lists every nut and bolt needed.

The Dreamer · #3 (**permalink**) 09-14-2006, 03:04 PM

For the TKOs you need the 26 spline disk which is actually a GM disk if you are using a McLeod clutch. You do need a shorten input shaft or a spacer. I went with the shorten input shaft. There is nothing exotic about the setup though.

kris-kincaid · #4 (**permalink**) 09-14-2006, 04:36 PM

For the 26 spline disk I have asked for a disk from a '79 Trans Am with a 400 in it. It used a T-10 which also has 26 splines and is an 11" disk. Then just use the pressure plate for an FE. I like to use the McLeod spacer instead of the shortened input shaft because it puts the shifter closer to where it was on an original Cobra.

HSSS427 · #5 (**permalink**) 09-14-2006, 09:14 PM

You also need to consider the bellhousing you have. I had an original Ford cast iron housing and switched to a Lakewood scatter shield when I put in my TKO 600. The Lakewood is 1/2" shallower (ie the tranny is 1/2" closer to the engine) than the Ford housing.

This will obviously also change the location of the mouting bolts on the tail housing and, as said, move the shifter forward.

I also installed a roller bearing instead of a brass bushing in the flywheel, and the bearing is more difficult to get the input shaft into than the bushing.

Mike Forte was a big help - available on the phone, had all the parts, including adapters to deal with the issue of the tailhousing mount moving forward. I would strongly suggest giving him a call and talking it through. He knows all the tricks of the Tremecs in Cobras.