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Thread: TKO 500 or 600?
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08-24-2005 #1Registered User
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- Sep 2004
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TKO 500 or 600?
Well, it looks like my deal on a T-56 trans for my 71 chevelle fail thru. So I guess I'll be putting a tko 500 or 600 in my car. The question is, which gear ratio (500 or 600) would be best for my combination. I'll be running a mild 402 BB, with a 2.73 rear (if the code is correct on my axle housing....need to pull the cover and check the actual gears before I order the trans.) I'm leaning toward the tko-500, due to it's 3.27 first gear ratio. I'll probably leave the 2.73 in the rear and maybe enjoy some fair gas milage.
Also, I was considering a hydraulic TOB, does anybody make one for the TKO that's more affordable than the McLeod (~$375.00)? Or should I stick with a mechanical system.
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08-24-2005 #2Registered User
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- Aug 2004
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- Encinitas, CA
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I would go with the TKO500 if you want the first gear pop but the .68 overdrive will be very deep.
The other option is a TKO600 with the .82 overdrive if you are focusing on the 5th gear.
I would go with themechanical linkage unless you just have to have hydraulics - easier and less expensive.Jeff Mortenson
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08-24-2005 #3Registered User
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- Aug 2005
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Is your car a manual transmission now, or is this a conversion?
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08-24-2005 #4Registered User
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- Sep 2004
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This is a conversion. Originally auto on the column.
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08-25-2005 #5The easiest way to check the differential gear ratio without pulling the rear cover is to lift the rear end of the vehicle with a jack (using jack stands of course) and physically rotate a rear tire one complete revolution while counting the number of revolutions that the driveshaft/pinion makes. If the drive shaft rotates almost three times, your differential gear ratios would be 2.73:1, etc. Obviously it's not as exact as counting the R&P teeth, but it'll save you pulling the rear cover just for that purpose.
I'm running a TKO-500 (.68 5th, w/3.42) with my 454 and LOVE it. With the 500 and your 2.73s you'll be pulling a 1.85:1 final ratio, which might lug in 5th at lower speeds, but you'll love that .68 if you ever go with a numerically higher gear. My car runs ~2100@70mph and I average 16-17mpg on the highway.
As Jeff mentioned just go with the mechanical linkage. In my opinion it gives a better feel than hydraulic.
Dan
08-25-2005 #6