ive been starting to research putting a 5 speed in my duster. all my options require a bit of surgery to the t-bar crossmember. im ok with cutting, just been wondering about structural integrity and torsional rigidity.

my thoughst are that the t-bar corssmembser was only spot we;lded to the floorpans from the factory. since i have weld in subframe connectors, a slight bit of trimming to fit a five speed should not make any difference, correct?

the other part of me says to weld in and box it after cutting, which requires me to trailer the car to semeone who can weld.

whats your opinions? it a hot small block, stock shift, street/strip/autocross car.

michael

When I installed the Richmond 5-speed in my Savoy the T-bar member needed some trimming for the linkage to pass through.I just boxed it in because I had a welder in my garage but if you have to carve a large portion then I would have it welded for for sure.Just remember stick cars are very rough on the chassis
Gus

Just remember the drivers side torsion bar is trying to rip the crossmember off the floor & shove it through the pavement... The passenger side torsion bar is only trying to shove the crossmember up through the floor... Box it & tie the two pieces together with steel inside the car hidden by the carpet.. BTW I saw the result of a unreinforced drivers side busting loose... Not good..