t56
The main benefits of the Magnum over the TKO are increased torque capacity (700 vs. 500/600 lb-ft.), higher RPM shift capability (8000 vs 6500), double overdrive (.80:1 5th, .63:1 6th vs .68 or .64 in the TKO), and greater refinement (quieter, better shifting, etc), which are all nice things except for a couple big problems... The Magnum uses a modern T-56 style front plate that will require you to run a custom bell (Quick Time bellhousings likely has the one you need), which will run you somewhere in the neighborhood of 450-550 bucks. Additionally clutch linkage is bound to be a custom arrangement, which will continue to add to the expense. Keep in mind that the Magnum is already around $600 more that the TKO. Lastly the lowest gear you can get in a Magnum is a 2.97 1st, and your ability to tow is virtually non-existent (see SRT-10 Ram w/Tremec T-56).
Now as for the TKO, it can bolt right up to a Top Loader bellhousing, thus saving you lots of coin. It's available with a 10-spline input shaft (common to Ford, not sure what you have, but Magnum is 26-spline only requiring a new disc), and can get you much closer to the shift position you're after (about 6-inches further forward w/ front shift conversion). Furthermore, even though its still not intended for any real towing, you can at least get away with a little bit using the TKO.
The only problems you're going to have that I can't help at all with are: A.) The front shift conversion for the TKO (Tremec no longer offers them). I would recommend talking to Forte's Parts Connection since they are the ONLY place to my knowledge that still does them. B.) The interface to your NP435 transfer case. I'm a street performance guy so I don't know much about that. However, there's a company called Advance Adapters that does alot of that stuff using Tremecs, so I would try them.
SORRY TO HI-JACK THE THREAD EVERYONE! I HOPE THAT INFO IS HELPFUL! GOOD LUCK!








