Richmond ROD 6 sp

[Chris Chrapko]

AHH so many questions to ask. Well I guess I'll start out by asking if anyone out there has succesfully installed a Richmond ROD 6 speed in a 1980 camaro with out major tunnel mods or relocation of the shifter position. First of all I'll state that I have chosen the Richmond tranny because it appears to be much smaller in physical size (than a T-56) and is rated to 450 ft lbs. Although I am more partial to a top loading Transmission, I have found that a T-56 swap will not work for me due to alot of tunnel mods (to keep drive angle correct), and the GM aftermarket is only rated for 400 ft lbs. My car is an original 4 sp car and I have just installed a 540 hp, 480 ft. lbs 383 cid engine. My goal is to make these mods if possible without cutting any sheet metal to make a 6 sp work. I guess my question is am I barking up the wrong tree ?? I would really like to have a 6 speed in the car. My other option is a TKO 600 which should drop in other than a modded drive shaft and tranny mount, but once again it is only a 4 speed with an overdrive. I appreciate the time taken for those who read this post and pls be patient because this is all relatively new to me.

One other note, my plan for this car is to be a daily driver/ pro-touring type car. In the event I get some positive feed back on the instillation of the Richmond transmission, the following would likely be my choice of driveline gearing. Any advice would be much appreciated.



1 - 3.04
2 - 2.13
3 - 1.57
4 - 1.24
5 - 1.00
6 - 0.62
Built 10 bolt 8.5 ring, Moser axles, C-clip eliminators, and if possible GM Posi with a 3.42 diff. ratio
27 inch tires.
Redline = 6200-6500 RPM

Thanks Again

C.C