First Generation Firebird-L Mailing List
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I totally want to do this conversion. Every time I read about someone that
has done it their comment is the same - best mod I ever did - should have
done it years ago, etc. A friend of mine just converted his 69 Camaro using
the kit from Classic Chevy 5 speeds (who also has the same kit for Firebirds
and are good guys to work with). He did the TKO500. He also says it is
awesome (he just completed it a few weeks ago and I haven't had a chance to
ride in it). Unfortunately, doing this conversion w/o breaking the bank
isn't easy. He spent between $3K and $4K I believe before it was all said
and done (I think closer to $4K). The cost is generally higher if you have
an automatic as you also need the pedals and a few other parts - my buddy
had a stick.
I look at it like an engine rebuild or paint/body. My engine rebuild (with
me doing everything but machine work) was well over $3500 (I'm scared to
actually total it up), and paint/body will also cost me a fortune (and I
plan to shoot it, but may farm out some of the metal work). It is a
significant part of the car and is a component you interact with every time
you are in the car. The motivation for doing it is not gas mileage, but
driving enjoyment. You get so much more control over the power (i.e. you
are always in the right gear), along with the bonus of an overdrive so you
don't feel compelled to sit in the right lane on the freeway at 60 mph
(while Toyota Prius's pass you by).
Later,
Chris
----- Original Message -----
From: "Bob Morman" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, June 30, 2009 12:53 PM
Subject: [FGF] 69 Firebird 5-speed conversion w/o breaking the bank?
First Generation Firebird-L Mailing List
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Hello all!
I've been a lurker for awhile now and have really come to appreciate reading
the banter and tips. I have a 69 Firebird coupe that I've been restoring
and am looking to convert from TH350 to a 5-speed. The motor is fairly
stock, minus a cam and 4bbl. I would like to convert and remain budget
conscious if at all possible. Not having a technical background, I've
managed to learn and get this far, but this next phase of the project is
beyond my knowledge. What options are available without dropping a large
bag of cash on a Tremec? Considering I'm doing a full conversion, what
kinds of things should I be thinking about?
Thanks for your time, I'm just wandering aimlessly looking for some
direction. :)
Bob in OH
PS: In case of curiosity, here's my photobucket site. The car is farther
along than this having all the chrome etc..; it's really just missing the
interior and I was holding off on that until I figured out the 5-speed bit.
http://s347.photobucket.com/albums/p444/69-fb/Firebird/
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