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Author Topic: T-5 Tranny Questions  (Read 1063 times)

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Offline 80_2.3_ESS

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T-5 Tranny Questions
« on: October 15, 2012, 10:00:27 AM »
My Pinto is starting to piece together at this point, and the only thing really left missing is the T5 and bell-housing.

I know they made the T5's for the 2.3 Mustangs, and they had a lower first gear to compensate for the lower power from the motor. If I recall correctly, they weren't as heavy-duty either compared to their 5.0 brothers.

So, my question is, is there any other differences? Would it be possible to run a 5.0 T5, with the correct bell-housing, and compensate with different rear-end gears to comp for the taller first gear in the tranny?

One reason I thought about this, was because the motor I am throwing into the car is going to be a little more powerful than a stock 2.3. I would think the 2.3L T5 should be able to handle the added power, but obviously the 5.0L one would be a little stronger behind it. Maybe I am just over-thinking and worrying too much. I tend to over-build things just-because and for the added peace of mind.

Or is this just a bad idea, and should I seek out the 2.3L T5. I would assume the 5.0L versions are easier to come by, and be a little beefier.
Nick in CT

1980 2.3L Pinto ESS

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Re: T-5 Tranny Questions
« Reply #1 on: October 15, 2012, 10:09:53 AM »
Although the 5.0 t-5 is indeed a stronger box, there may be input shaft/disc/ T/O bearing issues that would not be easily resolved. The web site for Quaife USA has all the skinny on the HP and torque limitations of their versions of the T-5 & T-9 , including the limits of a Rocket box 4 speed that they offer. These are better than stock , but the info is worthy of a Look. Unless you like really beating up a trans, a mildly hopped up 2.3 won't destroy a 4 cylinder t-5. (if you have less than 175 hp)  ;)
Yes, it is possible to study and become a master of Pintosophy.. Not a religion , nothing less than a life quest for non conformity and rational thought. What Horse did you ride in on?

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Mike Modified

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Re: T-5 Tranny Questions
« Reply #2 on: October 15, 2012, 12:27:13 PM »
Transmissions are rated by torque capability, not horsepower.
 
1985-89 Ford T-5s, V-8 & 4-cylinder, are rated at 265 ft-lbs.  Many V-8 Mustangs were severly beefed up, with little or no problems with this transmission.
 
1990-up V-8 T-5s were rated at 300 ft-lbs.
 
IMO, a good condition 85-up 4-cylinder T-5 will handle just about anything you can throw at it in a street driven car.  A 400 hp 2.3T will have a much lower torque rating than a 400 hp 5.0 and the transmission should readily handle it.
 
Of course, as with just about any internet advice, Your Mileage May Vary.   :)
 
Mike