MDL TREMEC GM TKX 5-Speed | 3.27 First, 0.72 OD | 2” Left Side Shift Rear, 1” or 1.15” Forward Offset
Key Features
- 600 lb-ft torque capacity with 7,500 RPM shift capability and 8,000 RPM engine speed rating
- Gearing ratio (3.27, 1.98, 1.34, ,1.00, 0.72) - 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 rear modification with a 1” or 1.15” forward offset stub - precise shifter placement without compromise
- Shifter Stub Location: 2” left of center line, 18.02” or 18.52” backward from the bellhousing face
- MDL Exclusive - not available through TREMEC
Description
The TREMEC TKX solves the fundamental problem facing classic muscle car builders: aging 4-speeds and early 5-speeds that can't handle modern power levels or high-RPM shifting demands. With 600 lb-ft of torque capacity and the ability to shift at 7,500 RPM with 8,000 RPM engine speeds, this transmission is engineered for today's performance builds - not yesterday's limitations.
Unlike transmissions adapted from OEM applications, TREMEC designed the TKX from the ground up specifically for the aftermarket. The innovative end-loading case architecture delivers a slimmer profile for exceptional tunnel clearance while simultaneously increasing structural strength through its ribbed, 3-piece aluminum housing. This means GM A-body installations - Chevelle, GTO, Cutlass, Nova, Camaro - typically require no tunnel modifications. The wide-ratio gearing with its 3.27 first gear delivers strong launches, while the 0.72 overdrive drops highway RPM for improved cruising efficiency and reduced engine wear.
Shiftability sets the TKX apart from the competition. Sintered carbon/bronze hybrid triple-cone synchronizers with a non-leading tooth profile eliminate the stiff, notchy feel common in high-torque applications. Tapered roller bearings on the input, output, and counter shafts reduce noise while caged needle bearings on the main shaft ensure smooth operation. The rear main-shaft support bushing is positioned closer to the gearbox for improved support under load. All gears and shafts are manufactured from special grade steel (ASTM 4615) for maximum torque carrying capacity.
This specific configuration features side-shift rear socket design with a 1" or 1.5" forward offset, enabling precise shifter positioning for your specific application. The GM Muncie bellhousing bolt pattern provides direct bolt-up compatibility with existing 3-speed and 4-speed bellhousings. Built with 100% brand-new OEM-quality components, the TKX requires 2.7 quarts of ATF Dexron III, TREMEC HP-MTF, GM Synchromesh, or Mobil 1 Synthetic ATF. Note that converting to the TKX requires a 26-spline clutch disc and typically a new driveshaft with 31-spline slip yoke.
Kit Includes
- TREMEC TKX 5-speed transmission (TCET17805) with 3.27, 1.98, 1.34, 1.00, 0.72 gear ratios
- High-performance short-throw billet aluminum shifter (2” left side shift rear, 1” or 1.5” forward offset 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