Much like in Coyote equipped Mustangs once performance upgrades start the MT-82 transmission isn’t equipped for the job.

Photos: Glen Cope II and Modern Driveline

While it’s still a niche market compared to the V8 crowd, there are plenty of formidable V6 Mustangs prowling the streets and tracks. One of those is Glenn Cope over at V6 Mustang Performance. Cope’s car sees regular duty as a road course going machine. With the six-banger wearing a ProCharger Cope can keep up with and surprise many V8 guys.

One of the problems that has plagued 3.7 owners is similar to that which has plagued 5.0 owners as well -Ford’s use of the MT-82 transmission. To many this transmission is  barely acceptable for stock power levels, anything over that, and it’s typically living on borrowed time. The problems are further compounded for V6 owners as the gearing of the trans is more appropriate for an anemic four-cylinder than a 300-plus horsepower V6. Then there’s the remote shifter, something we’ve hated since day one in the S197 platform cars.

Left: Tremec T-56 Magnum XL, Center: MT-82 for V6, Right: MT-82 for Coyote

Owners of Coyote powered Mustangs have found salvation in Tremec’s T-56 Magnum XL transmission. Capable of handling 700 ft-lbs of torque, and offering two different gearing options, we’ve even swapped one of these stout transmissions into our own Project Wild E Coyote. Until now however there wasn’t much a solution for 3.7 owners.

Gear ratios of the MT-82 and T-56 Magnum XL

Cope worked with Tremec and Modern Driveline to develop a T-56 Magnum XL package for the 3.7. He has outlined the experience on the V6 Mustang Performance Web-site and to date he’s more than pleased with the outcome.

Completed installation

Modern Driveline Package Includes:

• TREMEC T-56 Magnum XL Six-Speed Transmission with Shifter
• All Fastening Hardware
• QuickTime Custom SFI Approved Bellhousing
• Superior Diaphragm Clutch, Kevlar/Organic
• Modern Driveline Lightened Billet Steel Flywheel
• S197  Steel Crossmember
• T-56 Magnum XL Mount
• Electronic Reverse Gate Controller
• Wiring Harness & Plugs
• Shift Ball & Collar
• Four Quarts of Synthetic Transmission Fluid
• High-Speed Dynatech Precision Balanced Aluminum Driveshaft
• Highly Detailed Installation Instructions and Lifetime Tech Support

Cope says that the cost of the swap is a worthwhile investment for any serious V6 performance enthusiast, especially those looking to put their car on the track on a regular basis.