How to Install a T56 Magnum XL into a S197 Mustang

[boss302ls]

Inquiring minds got to know!

https://www.hotrod.com/articles/install-t56-magnum-xl-s197-mustang/

 

[VoodooBoss]

Nice article, thanks for posting!

 

[Boss2083]

Who has done this swap? Cost? Can 1 person do this? Thanks.

 

[racer47]

I did it by myself. Its a biznitch. The trans weighs a lot and there is no room to spare but its doable

 

[boss302ls]

Who has done this swap? Cost? Can 1 person do this? Thanks.

Hey Boss2083. If you're interested, I would try directing your inquiry to the original author at Hot Rod magazine. I would send him an email. You can contact Mark here.

Mark Gearhart
https://www.hotrod.com/contact-us/

Go to the bottom of this webpage and make your request. If you pursue this, please let us know here by posting up Mark's reply. We also would be very interested in knowing what he had to say about the costs involved. He might be able to provide additional insights. Best wishes.

 

[cgornowich]

I installed the Magnum XL in my 2008 Saleen by myself in a standard garage and it's not too difficult. This kit from JPC comes with most everything:

http://www.jpcracing.com/jpc-tremec...-includes-driveshaft-clutch-flywheel-options/

A few things to keep in mind:

1. If you're concerned with NVH, be mindful that those dual disc clutches can be VERY noisy in certain conditions, mine sounds like a coffee can full of rocks below 2k RPM.

2. I used tall jack-stands and a harbor freight transmission jack, and did mine on the garage floor. It's tight, but it will slide right in.

3. The new driveshaft uses allen head bolts to fasten to the rear end, you'll need a "stubby" allen key.

4. Watch the gear ration selection, I used the "low geared one" (2.97 2.10 1.46 1.00 0.80 0.63) and swapped my rear gear for a 3.73. It works OK for the track, but slow starts on hills in street driving require slipping the clutch a good amount. I have a lightened flywheel, perhaps a standard weight one would have been a better choice.

5. I used a Reverse Lockout Module, works great for me. Google it, for under $100 it's worth it.

6. The kit comes with the plastic alignment tool, it's worthless, get one of these:

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/ram-03-013/overview/

That said, it's a solid transmission. When you want to select a gear, it goes into that gear. No problems. My old 5-speed would refuse to shift above 6k RPM with even moderate throttle. I think it's worth the trouble...

 

[boss302ls]

I installed the Magnum XL in my 2008 Saleen by myself in a standard garage and it's not too difficult. This kit from JPC comes with most everything:

http://www.jpcracing.com/jpc-tremec...-includes-driveshaft-clutch-flywheel-options/

A few things to keep in mind:

1. If you're concerned with NVH, be mindful that those dual disc clutches can be VERY noisy in certain conditions, mine sounds like a coffee can full of rocks below 2k RPM.

2. I used tall jack-stands and a harbor freight transmission jack, and did mine on the garage floor. It's tight, but it will slide right in.

3. The new driveshaft uses allen head bolts to fasten to the rear end, you'll need a "stubby" allen key.

4. Watch the gear ration selection, I used the "low geared one" (2.97 2.10 1.46 1.00 0.80 0.63) and swapped my rear gear for a 3.73. It works OK for the track, but slow starts on hills in street driving require slipping the clutch a good amount. I have a lightened flywheel, perhaps a standard weight one would have been a better choice.

5. I used a Reverse Lockout Module, works great for me. Google it, for under $100 it's worth it.

6. The kit comes with the plastic alignment tool, it's worthless, get one of these:

https://www.summitracing.com/parts/ram-03-013/overview/

That said, it's a solid transmission. When you want to select a gear, it goes into that gear. No problems. My old 5-speed would refuse to shift above 6k RPM with even moderate throttle. I think it's worth the trouble...

CG - Did you ever consider going with a Centerforce’s DYAD twin-disc clutch like they did in the article? You think this would have eliminated the chatter you mentioned?

 

[cgornowich]

Boss, I did not. I've purchased a standard style Exedy 07953FW with a heavier flywheel. Just need to finish the garage expansion first, need more room to work...