Common Tremec T56 Myths and Truths
T56 Myths Debunked
In this guide, you will learn the most common T56 myths and truths associated with this Tremec transmission.
MYTH
The T56 transmission has a bent shift fork causing it to have issues going into gear.
TRUTH
The rumor of the “bent shift fork” is simply not true. Cast aluminum does not bend. It will break if it flexes enough, but it will not bend.
The real reason a transmission would have trouble going into gear is usually worn engagement teeth on the slider and gear. It could also be worn shift fork pads.
MYTH
My T56 transmission will handle more horsepower and torque after the Stage 2 build.
TRUTH
The unit will not handle any more power once rebuilt. The upgrades do not increase the power handling of the transmission. Instead, they eliminate weak points which increases durability. This is necessary regardless of power levels. It is a small price to pay to have a better transmission.
Q: How do I increase the power handling of my T56 transmission?
A: The gear tooth contact area is what determines the power the unit can handle. Replace it with a TR6060 Magnum, or go with an aftermarket gearset such as the Gforce setup.
MYTH
I want my T56 built to Viper-spec.
TRUTH
The term “Viper-spec” is very misleading. The Viper was essentially the same as any Fbody T56 unit. Only notable difference is the 30-spline output shaft, which is indeed stronger than the 27-spline.
The input shaft was also made slightly thicker, but this was never a problem area to begin with. To clear up the misinformation, the Viper T56 is not much better than a fbody unit. The better option is a Magnum F.
MYTH
I was told that my transmission “just needs a synchro”.
TRUTH
This is never the case. Most people who say this do not even know what a synchro is. No one can diagnose a manual transmission without disassembling and inspecting it.
There are many components to a “synchro“. This includes a hub, sleeve, rings (inner/middle/outer in some cases), keys and springs. Usually, the transmission will need a number of parts to make it good again.
MYTH
I want the upgraded carbon synchro rings in place of the paper rings.
TRUTH
There is only one choice of synchro ring friction material, and that is carbon. In the first few years of the T56, a compressed paper lining was used, but that was discontinued after a short time. Once those old style rings were off the shelves, they were never made again. The revised rings were made with a carbon friction lining. Unfortunately, many companies made it out to be an upgrade when it was simply a factory revision.
