What type of  Transmission should I use for my Cobra Kit?

When it comes to deciding on the right Transmission, some of the deciding factors that will narrow your choices.

1. How much Horsepower and torque will the engine produce?
2.  Are you using the car for racing or for the street or maybe both?
3. Is the rest of your vehicle setup with a good rear end, tires, suspension to compliment the Transmission?

Most people opt for a Manual Transmission for their Cars being that's what they were originally equipped with in the 60's and will more than likely hold more resale value.

There are a few manufacturers out there who make a good product. Most of the guys use  the following: Toploader, T5z or the Tremec TKO series. Here are some general notes on these.

For everyday use, the T-5 is fantastic. Reliable and easy to shift and has an overdrive in 5th.

When the 93 Cobra was introduced, so was the "Cobra Spec" T-5. It was the first T-5 with a front tapered output bearing and steel front bearing retainer. Just about everything else remained the same. Torque rating was increased to 310ft/lbs.

The "Z" Spec
In about 1993 Ford started offering a new service unit to the crowd. The "Z" spec T-5, also sometimes referred to as "World Class T-5". Most folks, associate the term "World Class" as meaning the best. The T-5z is a 93 Cobra T-5 with 2.95 first gear set and .63 over drive. It has the best of everything. Hardened gears, short throw shifter, steel front bearing retainer, and tapered output shaft bearing. Best of all it has a torque rating of 330ft/lbs. This T-5 can handle up to 450 hp if not drag raced.
Also, there are differences in first gear ratio that are significant; some T-5's are 2.95:1 others are 3.35:1.

A transmission in a 2,000-pound car handles torque a lot differently than in a 4,000-pound car. It also depends on the tires you are running. If the tires spin freely, it is going to put less stress on the transmission
 

For lots of power or racing of most kinds, the Tremec is normally used. Also has a Overdrive in 5th. There is the TKO 500 and TKO 600 series. Most people opt for the 600 series which handle some more torque. To see a complete Tremec TKO package we offer click here.
On the Tremecs the Overdrive can be had with 0.82 instead of the stock 0.68. This "close ratio" makes the 5-speed a true "5-speed" and much better for these cars. Otherwise, you have a 4-speed with overdrive.
 

For "period correct" the Top Loader is used. Also very good for some racing use.
 

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