MDL TREMEC GM TKX 5-Speed | 1953-1967 Corvette | 2.87 First, 0.68 OD | 2” Left Side Shift Rear, Straight Up
Key Features
- 600 lb-ft torque capacity with 7,500 RPM shift capability and 8,000 RPM engine speed rating
- Gearing ratio (2.87, 1.89, 1.28, 1.00, 0.68) - deep overdrive drops highway RPM for improved cruising
- 26-spline input shaft (1-1/8 in. diameter) and 31-spline output shaft for added strength
- Compact end-loaded aluminum case fits most GM tunnels without floor modifications
- Ribbed 3-piece housing (main case, intermediate plate, rear extension) for structural stiffness
- Multi-cone synchronizers with sintered carbon/bronze hybrid rings for smooth high-RPM shifts
- ASTM 4615 special-grade steel gears and shafts with caged needle bearings in all gear positions
- GM Muncie bellhousing bolt pattern - direct swap for 3-speed and 4-speed applications
- GM 0.590-inch pilot tip with 1.375-inch OD throwout bearing guide tube
- Built-in reverse light switch and cruise control safety switch
- Dual speedometer outputs: mechanical 7-tooth Ford gear (adaptable to GM) plus OSS two-wire analog sensor
- 99 lbs dry weight; 2.7-quart fluid capacity
- High-performance short-throw billet aluminum shifter included
- MDL side shift modification with a straight up stub - precise shifter placement without compromise
- Shifter Stub Location: 2” left of center line, 19.52” back from the bellhousing face
- MDL Exclusive - not available through TREMEC
Description
Early Corvettes demand precision engineering when upgrading to modern overdrive performance. When the TKX leaves the TREMEC factory, the shifter is centered -- and that creates a problem for C1 and C2 Corvettes where the original floor shifters were offset toward the driver for comfortable, easy shifting. MDL's tailstock modifications solve this by relocating the shifter stub to the correct OE position, eliminating the need to cut your floor or modify your center console.
This isn't just a bolt-on shifter -- it's a complete engineering solution. MDL achieves three critical objectives: smooth shifting identical to the unmodified unit, correct OE shifter positioning without console alterations, and rock-solid reliability with a finished appearance that simplifies installation. The custom shifter turret is the smallest offered in the industry for optimal fitment through the factory shifter opening, CNC-machined from aluminum and anodized for corrosion resistance and lightweight integration. Each unit is prepared by hand at MDL's facility to ensure quality and precision.
The TKX foundation delivers superior shift quality through multi-cone synchronizers and hybrid rings made of sintered bronze and carbon, while all gears and shafts are manufactured from special grade steel (ASTM 4615) for increased torque carrying capacity. The three-piece ribbed aluminum housing provides outstanding structural stiffness, and the robust internal three-rail shift system uses steel shift forks. Tapered roller bearings on input, output, and countershafts reduce noise while a caged needle bearing supports the mainshaft.
Compatible with GM Muncie bellhousing bolt patterns using a 7.2-inch input shaft with GM 0.590-inch pilot tip and 1.375-inch OD throwout bearing guide tube. Includes both mechanical and electronic speedometer outputs. Note that C1 Corvettes (1953-1962) require crossmember fabrication. Recommended fluids include AMSOIL ATF or Synchromesh, TREMEC HP-MTF, GM Synchromesh, or Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF. MDL extends the manufacturer's warranty by an extra year with a 1-year grace period.
Kit Includes
- TREMEC TKX 5-speed transmission (TCET17805) with 2.87/1.89/1.28/1.00/0.68 gear ratios
- High-performance short-throw billet aluminum shifter (2” left side shift front, straight up stub)
- Gaskets for all mating surfaces
- Built-in reverse light switch (left side)
- Built-in cruise control safety switch (right side)
- Mechanical speedometer drive gear (7-tooth Ford pattern, adaptable to GM)
- OSS two-wire analog speedometer sensor
- MDL extended warranty: manufacturer warranty plus 1 additional year with 1-year grace period
- Lifetime technical support