5 speed transmissions A855 vs TKX

[GrandpaKevin]

Thinking of going with a newer 5 speed manual transmission.

Looking at the TKX and A855.

My Challenger is an original 4 speed car with correct 4 speed trans tunnel.

The A855 is currently in stock for $7000 plus shipping, not cheap but from what I understand the A855 is a direct bolt in to my 4 speed car, I have a new Hemi clutch setup already.

I'm not sure of the TKX price for my application but I'm sure I'll need a new bell housing, clutch, driveshaft, etc.
I really don't need a hydraulic clutch setup unless it is absolutely needed.

So for those that have done a TKX install what were your costs?
Am I going to be close to 7k installing the TKX with the needed parts?
Will the TKX fit my Challenger without needing to modify my floor?
Are the drivetrain angles correct?

Finally driveability....

I like to drive my stick shift cars hard, I have a Dana 60 under my Challenger and love to power shift and trips to the drag strip with sticky tires is not out of the question.

My current Hemi 4 speed works great and power shifts like butter

I would expect the A855 to be a stout, good shifting transmission, the TKX is a mystery to me and I've heard good and bad about it's strength.

Should I expect the TKX to shift the same and survive or is power shifting difficult and damaging?

Are the TKX gear ratios designed for performance or daily driving?


Thanks for any info and advice.

[Dakota]

I recently purchased a TKX from SST for my 70 Challenger 340.   It has not been installed yet.   I'm currently running an A833 OD with an American Powertrain Hydramax hydraulic throw-out bearing.   Since I mostly drive around town (limited highway), above about 8 mph I'm basically driving a 2 speed which doesn't downshift easily.  It's not much fun. I visited the SST booth at Carlisle at least 3 times when I was there in 2021 to look at and play with the display model.   Besides the difference in gear ratios (more on this below), the smoothness of the modern shifting mechanism was one of the main reasons for my purchase.

Including NY sales tax (8.25%) and a $500 discount available at the time of purchase this summer, the transmission package was about $4800.   This includes the transmission, bell housing, break-in oil, clutch, bell housing, u-joints, hydraulic throw-out bearing, cross member and a new bezel for the gear shift (I'm re-using my existing shift lever as well as my clutch master cylinder).   As you noted, a new drive shaft will be needed.   SST initially included the cost of the drive shaft in their sales price but now it is a separate purchase ($300?) which is made after the tranny is installed and measurements completed.

SST has a close ratio and a wide ration option for gearing, plus 2 choices around the OT gear ratio for the close ratio unit.   I'd suggest looking at their website for the details:

https://shiftsst.com/blog/post/challenger-barracuda-1970-1974-perfectfit-kit.html#tabs-2

I got mine about a week after ordering it in late July 2022.

In the research I did before pulling the trigger on the purchase, I recall seeing a couple of examples where the tranny tunnel had to be massaged a little bit, but no cutting should be required for the install if you already have a manual.

I can't speak to the questions on drive angle or powershifting yet.

Hope this helps.   Good luck with it. 

[anlauto]

I'm surprised that the A855 is available now.
Buy the A855 in my opinion...

I really like my TKX, but judging from your post, you will NOT like it whatsoever.

[GrandpaKevin]

Thanks for the replies.

This place is showing one A855 in stock

http://www.5speedmuscle.com/store/p22/Mopar_A855_E_Body.html

[Fern]

Passion website says still out of stock and thets still a waiting list

[RUNCHARGER]

If I was doing it I would go to the 855 especially on a factory 4 speed car. Maybe I'm lazy but I like the bolt-in aspect of it along with factory driveshaft angles etc. I believe you even use the factory driveshaft, just plain no hassle.