I have a 76 L-82 with an TH400 today.

I want to get a 5 speed manual transmission.

So far looks like it's going to cost me $4000 to get a new RS400 with the conversion kit.

Anyone done this for less? Any advice appreciated.

I don't know details, but I have heard that transition is VERY difficult and very expensive.  The hardest part is getting a place to put the clutch pedal

My understanding is that Keisler has the best Kits for conversion. Including a hydraulic Clutch setup.  Not sure how painless it is, but I have only heard that it is reasonable.

Keisler quoted me $4000+ for the transmission and kit that includes everything I need.

I'm also looking at a Muncie M20 4 speed and kit for the conversion. I can get this done for under $1800. Guess my concern is not having a hydraulic clutch. but it may be fine.:-)

Others have done this but most seem to go with the TKO 500 or TKO 600 route.

If you go with the 4 speed option you may consider using a BW Super T-10 which is stock for your '76. It would be newer and less likely to have been sitting behind a high torque monster motor for most of it's life.  Seems like there's debate on other sites about which one reigns supreme but a good guess would be they're both going to be OK for the majority of our engines.  

Really if you can..put the 5 speed in..going thru all that trouble for a 4 speed wouldn't be worth it to me..but you may have 336 gears in the back so it may not be that bad for top end..and mileage..also..have you thought of making your 400 a full manual?? Only the cost of the kit and some time on the valve body and your bangin gears?? Just a thought

Rich

Yes, I have 3:36 gears.

As for the 5 speed I agree. just too much money for me. I have a way to get into a M20 that was rebuilt 500 miles ago with everything i need for the conversion for about $1700.

A 5 speed and conversion kit is over $4000. Just too much for me right now. But I really want a manual.

As for making my TH400 a manual. Wow, never knew that was an option. Hmm, I'll have to research that. Have you done it or know what I need to do it?

Doing a full manual auto is a blast..the only bad part is no matter where the throttle is it will chirp gears..hits like a rock all the time..it runs full line pressure all the time..the shifter operates as usual..start in one up to drive and down shift also..you will need a rev limiter as you can shift into 1st gear going 80to mph..its been a while since I did one but loved it..there are other options out there that are not as extreme but add a huge amount of performance above stock..good ol gill younger made a good kit and B&M and others I have used..if your trans is in good shape it only takes dropping the valve body and drilling it and the spacer plate..now if it were mine I would put the money into the auto with new redline frictions and kolene steels..update a sprag and drum and you are good to go..these things are really easy to build and cheap to do..only really need a reverse drum tool and clutch pack tool to do the job..there are some good videos out there..should be able to do the whole job for around 600$..

Rich

I have converted 3 cars.  While not a simple task, it is worth it.  Still have two of them, both with Keisler 5 speeds and wouldn't go back.  The hardest part is getting the dash out to install the clutch lever.  PM for discussion if you wish.

 I was under the impression that ALL turbo's had 3.08 rears. I guess that is not so now. At least from the factory.