MDL TREMEC GM TKX Road Race 5-Speed | 1953-1967 Corvette | 2.87 First, 0.81 OD | 2” Left Side Shift Rear, No Offset

Key Features

• 600 lb-ft torque capacity with 7,500 RPM shift capability and 8,000 RPM engine speed rating
• Close-ratio gearing (2.87, 1.89, 1.28, 1.00, 0.81) balances strong launches with relaxed highway 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 no offset 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

The stock TKX is an exceptional transmission, but its shifter location doesn't work with the C1 and C2 Corvette's unique interior layout. MDL solves this problem with extensive hand machining and custom component integration that repositions the shifter stub to the factory location - a modification developed through many hours of R&D and unavailable anywhere else. This isn't a bolt-on adapter; it's a comprehensively upgraded transmission that drops into your '53-'67 Corvette with proper shifter placement.

The TREMEC TKX delivers 600 lb-ft of torque capacity with 8,000 RPM capability and a 7,500 RPM shift rating - serious specifications for serious power. The close-ratio gearset (2.87, 1.89, 1.28, 1.00, 0.81 overdrive) keeps engine speed in the powerband through acceleration while the 0.81 fifth gear provides a tighter drop from fourth than the 0.68 option, making it ideal for road racing and spirited street driving where you want usable overdrive without lugging the engine.

Inside, sintered carbon/bronze hybrid triple-cone synchronizers deliver smooth, positive shifts at high RPM, while ASTM 4615 special grade steel gears and shafts handle the increased demands of modern performance engines. Tapered roller bearings on the input, output, and countershafts reduce noise, with caged needle bearings on the mainshaft. The single-piece countershaft increases torque-carrying capacity, and steel shift forks work with the internal three-rail shift system for precise gear selection.

The TKX's compact end-loaded case design provides excellent tunnel clearance compared to older TKO transmissions. The three-piece ribbed aluminum housing (main case, intermediate plate, rear extension) delivers structural stiffness while gaskets at all mating surfaces eliminate fluid leaks. The rear mainshaft support bushing is positioned closer to the gearbox for improved bearing support. Fits C1 1953-1962 and C2 1963-1967 Corvettes. Note: C1 Corvettes require crossmember fabrication. Fluid capacity: 2.7 quarts. Recommended fluids include TREMEC HP-MTF, Dexron III, GM Synchromesh, Amsoil ATF, or Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF.

Kit Includes

• TREMEC TKX 5-speed transmission (TCET17722) with 2.87/1.89/1.28/1.00/0.81 gear ratios
• High-performance short-throw billet aluminum shifter (2” left side shift rear, no offset)
• 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