Detroit Speed 1988 Camaro Transmission Test Car
Introduction
Detroit Speed Engineering (DSE) is a leading manufacturer of high-performance suspension and chassis components for classic and late-model muscle cars. In 1988, DSE built a transmission test car based on a 1988 Camaro. The purpose of the car was to test a new transmission design for use in drag racing.
The Transmission
The transmission used in the test car was a Tremec T-56 six-speed manual transmission. The T-56 was a new transmission at the time, and it was designed to handle the high torque and horsepower of drag racing engines. The transmission was equipped with a variety of features to improve its performance, including a close-ratio gearset, a heavy-duty clutch, and a billet aluminum bellhousing.
The Car
The 1988 Camaro used as the test car was a stock production car. The car was equipped with a 350 cubic inch V8 engine, a four-speed manual transmission, and a 10-bolt rear axle. DSE made several modifications to the car to prepare it for use as a transmission test car. These modifications included installing a roll cage, a set of drag racing slicks, and a parachute.
The Testing
DSE conducted extensive testing of the transmission test car at a variety of drag strips. The car was used to test the durability and performance of the transmission under a variety of conditions. The testing included both drag racing and road racing.
The Results
The transmission test car was a success. The transmission performed flawlessly throughout the testing, and it helped DSE to develop a number of improvements to the T-56 transmission. These improvements included a stronger gearset, a more durable clutch, and a more efficient bellhousing.
The Legacy
The Detroit Speed 1988 Camaro transmission test car played an important role in the development of the Tremec T-56 transmission. The car helped DSE to identify and correct a number of issues with the transmission, and it helped to make the transmission one of the most popular and successful drag racing transmissions ever produced.
Conclusion
The Detroit Speed 1988 Camaro transmission test car is a significant piece of automotive history. The car helped to develop one of the most important drag racing transmissions ever produced, and it continues to be used by drag racers today.
