I'm sure that everyone but me already knows...can i run a T-5 out of an S-10 behind a sbc at about 330 to 350 hp in a medium weight coupe approx 2600lbs?
TECH: Ultimate T-5 Article Some of the thread is MIA because of the new format change, but there is still a lot of info.
S10 might be marginal unless you drive carefully. For that application I've been doing Camaro T5 trans with S10 tail shaft housings. Done several successfully for customers and have them in my 32 roadster and 3 window.
I've got the Camaro T5 with S10 tail shaft combo behind a 350 in my C10. I'm probably only making a little more than 300 hp but definitely pulling more weight than 2600 lbs. No problems so far. I ran the S10 T5 behind a 230 sixer before dropping in the 350. I had no problems with it either. Just didn't trust it with more horses. Read that ultimate T-5 article that 117harv recommended. I learned a bunch from it.
The problem with most S10 trans are the gear ratios (4.03:1 first gear) which, besides being too low for most applications, causes the trans to be able to handle less input horsepower/torque.
I wouldn't use anything less then a TKO 500 or 600 with the HP your running. S-10 T5's weren't built to handle it.
Is it really a matter of horsepower and weight, or how you use (abuse) it? What breaks? Do they break just accelerating with the clutch out? I'm thinking you can put more stress than that with a 200hp holeshot.
I've run 39 trans' behind several sbcs and never blown one. Am I lucky or or just a good driver? If you drive it like a race car it will break like a race car. Drive it with some respect and it should last forever. It's all up to you.
The first gear ratio is what determines the torque rating. Higher number, ie 4.03:1, as used behind the 4 cyl engines, are less than a higher ratio used behind the V6. Or better yet the V8 versions in Camaro, with a taller first gear than either S-10. I think the trans will hold up fine, just take it easy on dumping the clutch. Speed shifting does not help them either, but a shifter with built in stops is wise upgrade.
all i can say is WOW, so much info. thanks a ton 117harv, am proccessing the data. i think that if i drive my age, the S-10 v-6 tranny will work, however there is a 16yr old kid deep inside me....!
Shock load is primarily what takes them out hard, this can be accelerating OR decelerating. You can break anything if you try hard enough
I'm going to get two of the S-10 v6 trannies as they seem to be easy and cheap, just keep one for a spare.
Just make sure you get one with the 3.76:1 gear set, and not the 4.03:1 gear set. That low a first gear will not be helpful with a V8, unless you change the rear axle gears too.
hmmm! the wifey says "just put an automatic in it"......the next thread will be how to make the driver's seat non adjustable!!! thank guys.
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