TKO or T45?

[PhilJustPhil]

Keisler Engineering is now offering a "Perfect Fit" T45 5-spd kit in addition to their TKO kit. The TKO is priced at about $500 more ... is the TKO worth the price premium? (Why?)

Keisler has given me quotes on both systems, but hasn't said which one they would recommend.

Going into a '68 with the 390 GT FE and a few bolt-on's.

Thx!
Phil

 

[65coupe408w]

if you are going to be putting any power through the drivetrain I would suggest the TKO. The T-45's just arent that good. I would take a T-5 over a T-45 any day. Just my 2 cents.

 

[SitDown]

Thanks for bringing these guys to light, didn't even know of a slim case TKO. What was their quote for the slim TKO?

If the car is just a cruiser, a std t5 will be fine for you. Buying a slim version of a t5/t45 isnt necessary. As mentioned above, if you plan to put some more power through it, or expect to be launching hard at the track a TKO would be more appropriate. Also x2 on the T5 over the T45

 

[PhilJustPhil]

Not pocket change

$2694 for the T45 and $3199 for the TKO. Both rated at 500 ft lb torque.

These kits are complete down to the pilot bushing, the driveshaft (specify length), cross member, speedo cable etc etc

Phil

 

[mtaqua]

I'd get the 600 and have room for growth. Seems like most people (to include myself) are never fast enough or have enough power. I realize $500 is a quite a bit of money, but it'll be less than a rebuild or worse a new one when you break the T45.

 

[65coupe408w]

Not pocket change

$2694 for the T45 and $3199 for the TKO. Both rated at 500 ft lb torque.

These kits are complete down to the pilot bushing, the driveshaft (specify length), cross member, speedo cable etc etc

Phil

Seems that this isnt just a regular T-45 so in that case my point about strength doesnt really apply. For that money you may want to look into a G-Force built T-5 also.

As mentioned above, it all depends on what you want to do with the car. Good luck and let us know what you choose!

 

[96 DOHC Cobra]

I have a T45 in my 96 Cobra and hate it. I wouldn't put a T45 in anything I want to drive. I thik when my car hits 45-50K miles, if the T45 is still alive, I'll swap it out for a T56. There's no way I would put a T45 OR a T5, even built units, behind an FE motor.

 

[mtaqua]

Also, if you go the T-5 route, astro performance makes a A-5. Upgrades to 550 ftlbs and 675hp. I am running one, I a haven't really ran it to much yet for feedback. It does shift well. Customer service is great.

 

[Sicarius428]

TKO is a stouter platform. I would go with a TKO600 but I am bias. I was in a similar boat when my t5(similar to the T45 without the funky bellhousing) gave out on my 300HP 5.0. TKO will handle the torque you have and then some.
Kevin

 

[93CoyoteCoupe]

T45 to T56 Conversion

I already have a t45 in my Fox.

How hard would it be to install a t56?

What would have to be changed?

 

[PhilJustPhil]

Seems that this isnt just a regular T-45 so in that case my point about strength doesnt really apply. For that money you may want to look into a G-Force built T-5 also.

As mentioned above, it all depends on what you want to do with the car. Good luck and let us know what you choose!

In speaking with them, strength really doesn't seem to be a concern - their T45RS500 is rated for 500 ft lb continuous. My mild 390 won't be making that. The salesguy also offers his opinion that of the two choices the T45 is smoother shifting. So I pulled the trigger and ordered it today (3 month wait).

Seems the kit isn't as complete as I thought - had to also order a clutch (due to input shaft spline count mismatch, couldn't use my current clutch) and a shifter handle.

 

[chris66dad]

A5 looks like a good bet for high HP

Pro-Force built - Astro A-5 T5 - 485 ft/lbs - 550 hp - $2000.00 plus your rebuildable T5 core
These are available with either the FOX input shaft, or the SN95 length shaft.
All of our A-5s include the billet countergear support plate and all new Timken brand bearings.
Fifth gear will be 0.64 unless otherwise specified.

Upgrades to the A-5:
- Billet synchro keys for third and fourth gear - add $50.00
- 575 ft/lb - 650 hp upgrade using the 9310 Alloy mainshaft - add $400.00

Astro A-5 Transmissions in Atlanta