CRT, Bowler, or Keissler "Manumatic" 727 trans replacement

[68 Sport Satellite]

My new big block motor project is underway and I've been looking at aftermarket transmissions. I have a 904 mated to the small block now, but my 451 will require a 727. I did earlier research and narrowed down my selection to an aftermarket trans by CRT (Cope Racing). While I feel that CRT has a good rep and makes a great trans, I'm thinking more and more about doing a setup that will handle autocross if I ever decide to pursue that. Dan W. with his '68 383 said in an article that he went through 4 automatic 727's before he finally converted the car to a manual trans and now it's bulletproof. Every manual car I've had has lasted forever and my auto trans cars usually experience slippage after the first 100K.

So then I came across an article where Bowler tranmissions now offers automatic transmissions that have major improved engine braking and have the feel of a manual without the manual foot clutch. Keissler also offers one and both have good reviews. I'm not sure about CRT and I will phone them soon.

Any of you have experience with these improved engine braking auto transmissions and is there a real benefit? The only downside I see so far is the price - I think the Bowler's start around $4K and the Keissler's are at least as much. The upgraded unit I was looking at from CRT with no engine braking is under $1500, but I want it to last and I'm thinking one of these Manumatic transmissions may be the way to go.

 

[john.thompson068]

Get a Jericho or Liberty transmission. You can get a four speed for the same price.

 

[68 Sport Satellite]

Get a Jericho or Liberty transmission. You can get a four speed for the same price.

I would have considered that, except for the last 2 yrs I've had a sciatic issue in my left lower back that acts up when I drive a clutch car often. Hence, I'm sticking with the automatic. Just looking for a solidly built, long lasting automatic trans and if I can get engine braking as part of that, I'd like to hear opinions from anyone who has tried one.

 

[john.thompson068]

What about that 6 speed automatic from TCI if I recall correctly?

 

[68 Sport Satellite]

Isn't the TCI made by Keissler? Yeah, I'm looking for feedback from anyone that's used one of these...I was going to get the CRT mid-level trans for $1500, but if I'm just going to have to replace it or work on it again in 5 yrs, why not spend some extra $$ to get a longer lasting unit? Not that the price of admission is going to be easy to swallow...

By the way, I'm still leaning towards CRT, but I need to give them another call and discuss my possible autocross plans with them. This will be 90% street driven with occasional track time, but the feedback from Dan W. on his 727 woes running the track got me worried...