Most cost efficient tranny.
 

3000 rpm at 65 with the 3.55 is a bit much. Keep thinking about something with a long OD to get down to 2000 at 70mph.

Last time I looked wound up with a BW T5 speed that is only good for about 300 lb-ft and not 500.

Seem to be a lot of choices now in 5 or 6 speeds but what is the easiest (1st), most cost effective (2nd) manual OD trans to replace an M20 Muncie & how to identify ?

Appreciate some advice before I start looking. Is a grand or a grand and a half ballpark ?

If your not going to beat on it a 3.42 first gear ST-10 and a tall real gear like a 3.08 would be good.I have one in my 62 GP with a 421HO engine and 2.68s in the back.LOVE it!Tom

Thank you but I have a correct 3.55 four pinion in it now. Besides I likes lotsa gears (and lotsa carbs) so wondering:
Are 5 or 6 speed manuals plentiful now ?
Will one just replace my M20 Muncie ?
What does a nice one (does not need to be new, just good) go for these days ?

The new Tremec TKX from Silver Sport Transmissions is worth looking into. The case should fit without modifying your floor pan. Realistically, it is about $5k all in. Depends on what you can reuse from the Muncie install.

Probably not the most cost efficient, but the best option out there right now looks like the Tremec TKX.

I have a T56, and while I like it...you have to cut the trans tunnel, build a custom cross member etc. etc. From what I have seen, this is not necessary with the TKX.

What Pontiacmark said above.....

Your budget will hold you back from a 5 speed im afraid.Tom

Maybeso. Not that important since doubt will make any long road trips. Just a "nice".