TECH
>>>>
FROM
SLUSHBOX TO SLICK STICK
Ditch your automatic Overdrive for exciting, shift-crazy,
Tremec TKO five-speed performance
story and photography by Jim Smart
W
hat we’re about to talk
about is nothing new.
However, the humble transmission swap is more involved than it
used to be, especially when you’re
going from an automatic to a manual
transmission in a Fox Mustang. The
’79-’93 Mustang is more complex than
its ancestors, which means a transmission swap takes more time and
requires more attention to detail. So,
disconnect your battery cable and let’s
get started.
We look to Julio Mayen of JME
Enterprises outside of San Diego,
California, to show us the way with
this Tremec TKO swap on a ’93
Mustang GT with automatic
Overdrive. Julio tells us that when
you’re converting an AODequipped 5.0L Mustang to manual
64 FOXMustangMagazine.com
transmission, you must change out
everything connected with the
transmission, including electrical
components. Here is what you’re
going to need.
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Transmission
(a number of choices
including Tremec TKO)
Bellhousing with clutch fork
50-ounce offset flywheel with
new bolts (correct length)
Centerforce Dual-Friction clutch
Pilot bearing (not a bushing)
Engine/bellhousing separator
plate and dust shield
Transmission mount and
proper crossmember
Back-up light plug and harness
Driveshaft and yoke
(now is the time for new
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U-joints and a slip yoke)
Clutch/brake-pedal assembly
Short-throw shifter, if you
can afford one
Clutch cable package
Clutch linkage dust cover
High-torque starter
Longer bellhousing to
engine bolts
(7/16 x 3 inches) (six)
Before getting started, you need
a detailed plan and organized parts
list so you’re not fumbling when
it’s time to get to work. Few things
are more frustrating than lying
underneath a car only to discover
you’re missing key parts that have
to be ordered. Projects derail when
you don’t have an advanced plan
with all parts on site.