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The Tremec is larger than the TH350, there is minimal clearance from the top of the transmission to the transmission tunnel, and the standard support bolts will not clear the top of the transmission. Pop rivets were used to fasten the front support while an OEM fastener is used at the rear support points. | 
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Our ace fabricator Bobby Livengood mocked up the metal box that will hide the interior of the console and console wiring. The Tremec shifter ends up in the center of the console shifter hole while the four-speed opening and trim pieces are offset to the driver side. The solution is to use the automatic transmission trim panel and make a "box" which fastens to the bottom of the trim piece. The box was etch-primed and then coated with truck bed paint for a durable and attractive finish. |
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The finished product turned out very well and looks professional. | |
Final Thoughts
It is important after an installation of this magnitude to conduct conservative testing. This car also received a full chassis restoration and upgrade consisting of a Hotchkis Performance TVS kit, Master Power front power disc brakes, Sean Murphy Q-Jet carb, and AGR power steering. Forte's recommends a gentle break-in until 200-300 miles have been accumulated on the transmission, then no full-throttle blasts until 1,000 miles have been logged.
The transmission was checked for proper operation as per Forte's directions. This involved running the trans through all gears for 5 minutes with the rearend supported on jackstands. This also facilitated checks for any unusual vibrations.
The Camaro has now been driven about 300 miles--the Tremec is smooth, and Fifth gear is fantastic for highway cruising with 1,800 rpm at 60 mph. First gear is capable of rotating local neighborhoods into the next county behind the great low-end torque of the ZZ4. It was well worth the effort.