I'm starting to collect parts for a swap from an auto to manual in my 79. I did a search and saw that a 93-97 Fbody setup would work. I remember seeing somewhere that a chevy truck setup from the 80's would work as well. Does anybody have any suggestions as to what model bellhousing and hydraulic clutch assembly works (aside from the 93-97)? I'm looking to shave some costs here so any suggestions would help.

What trans are you gonna use? We recently converted an XJ-6 from auto to a T-5, and the customer had a bellhousing w/hyd. throw-out brng setup. It was an aftermarket deal, but it worked our really sweet. I'll try to find out where he got his stuff, and what kind of $$ was involved.

 

Keisler has complete conversion kits from auto to 5spd od units, with clutch setup, bell, flywheel and rest,  but they start at around 4k, quite spendy. I've thought of the same thing, but haven't gotten around to research yet. If I do, I'll post and be lookin for yours.

I could get a fully rebuilt Muncie M20 or M21 for around $700. I would then need to add the linkage, speedo cable, neutral switch, well, everything else. I really cannot justify buying a Keisler kit as I drive my car under 2000 miles/yr. 

If you intend to go with a Muncie/Borg-Warner 4 spd. set-up, why not get the complete assy. from a donor car?(salvage yard) It would have eveything you need: trans, bellhousing, clutch linkage, pedal assy., etc. They did put 4spds in '79 Vettes, so the bracket for the clutch cross-shaft should be on the 'donor', but you would need to grind the welds off and then weld it onto your frame.
Time consuming, perhaps, but totally do-able.

you can get the bracket from any of the places that sell frame pieces..  bairs..  vetteproducts of michigan..  doc rebuild  to name a few..  saves you te hassle of grinding the old one off and rewelding..

 

 

Is it difficult to weld the piece to the frame with the body on the car?

[QUOTE=problemenko]Is it difficult to weld the piece to the frame with the body on the car? [/QUOTE]

i wouldnt think so... but the body is off of mine so i cant really visualize what would be in the way

Shouldn't be a problem, just have to move a few brake components out of the way.(Lines & proportional valve) A mig welder will be better & easier than a stick, but either will work. Just make sure there's a far extinguisher handy, just in case.
btw: You should verify that your block has a threaded hole by the oil filter to accept the pivot ball for the cross shaft. Adams' Apple38411.8560069444

the first pic on both of these pages should give you an idea where exactly it is

http://www.vetteprojects.com/cthulhu/images/frame-off/chassi s3/chassis3.html

http://www.vetteprojects.com/cthulhu/images/frame-off/chassi s2/chassis2.html