Instructions for transmissions with removable bellhousings (such as F-body T56)

1. Remove the factory bearing from the front of the transmission. Install the RAM collar using the supplied M6 bolts. Slide the bearing over the collar.

2. Measure from the bearing face (fully retracted) to the face of the transmission (bellhousing mounting surface). Use a straight edge across the top of the bearing to measure so you get an accurate number. This operation may require a helper to hold the straight edge. Check this several times and record the number (see photo 11).

3. Install the bellhousing only on the engine. Measure the position of the clutch fingers. Using the straight edge, lay it across the face of the bellhousing where the transmission bolts up, and measure down to the clutch fingers (see photo 7 below). Again, check this measurement several times to make sure you are getting an accurate number.

4. Now use your measurements to determine proper shimming based on the bearing measurements shown in the example above.

5. Install the hydraulic lines to the bearing, routing them through the factory openings in the bellhousing (see photo 12). The top outlet of the bearing should be used as the bleeder – install the bleed fitting in this line now to avoid confusion.

Example bearing measurements

Clutch fingers to bell measurement: 2.392”

Bearing height with 2 shims: 2.220”

Bearing height with 3 shims: 2.370”

So in this example, the installed gap would be:

With 2 shims: 2.392 – 2.220 = .172” gap

With 3 shims: 2.392 – 2.370 = .020” gap

The total potential movement of the bearing on the collar is .850”. In selecting the proper shims, you must make sure to allow enough room for the clutch to wear, and also allow enough forward travel (roughly .500”) without hitting the front stop on the bearing. By using two shims in this example, we are .192” off the fingers. This will allow for adequate wear clearance as the fingers move back. RAM recommends a minimum of .125 and max. of .175” clearance.

7. RAM provides an adapter fitting to connect from the bearing to the factory master cylinder. Connect the feed end of the #3 line from the bearing to the #3 end of the adapter. Connect the other end of the adapter to the factory quick disconnect line from the master cylinder.

8. Route the bleeder line so you have access to the screw and bleed the system. Use only dot 3 fluid.

9. Make SURE that all hydraulic lines are routed away from any heat sources and securely tied. Use heat wrap if necessary.