Tremec TCET18083 TKX 5-Speed Manual Transmission Wide Ratio Chevy

The TCET18083 is TREMEC's wide-ratio TKX for GM applications, stepping first gear up to 3.27 for stronger off-the-line acceleration, while a 0.72 overdrive fifth still keeps highway rpm down. TREMEC gives it a 600 lb-ft torque ceiling, a shift-quality limit of 7,500 rpm, and an overall engine-speed cap of 8,000 rpm, suiting Camaros, Chevelles, Novas, C10 pickups, Bel Airs, El Caminos, Corvette conversions, GTOs, Firebirds, Skylarks, and Cutlasses, including LS-swap builds.

Wider gears, same compact case

To handle the wide-ratio spread, the gears themselves are built wider than a close-ratio unit, inside a three-piece ribbed aluminum case with an integrated GM mounting pattern and multi-cone synchronizers for smooth shifts across second gear at 1.98 and third at 1.34, with 3.00 in reverse. Its compact, end-loaded shape still fits most classic GM tunnels with little or no modification.

Shaft sizes and included parts

Dry weight runs about 99 lbs, with 26 splines on the input side and 31 on the output carrying the load, about 2.7 quarts of fluid, and a mechanical clutch release. Included in the box: a stub-style shifter, a switch for the reverse lights, and a safety switch tied to cruise control, plus three shifter mounting positions to choose from; a bellhousing and slip yoke stay off the list.

How does the wide-ratio first gear help? Starting at 3.27 instead of a closer ratio gives stronger off-the-line pull for vehicles running steeper rear-axle gears.

Does TREMEC back this with a warranty? Yes, for one year, limited to flaws traced back to the factory rather than installation mistakes.