I want to start off by saying "thank you" for all the feedback. A couple of months ago, I received a letter from a reader asking if it was possible to transplant a manual transmission into a T-Type Turbo Buick Regal. I pillaged the internet, called every part manufacturer I could think of to ask for an answer, chased every lead I could find, only to find myself chasing my own tail. I wrote back to this reader that, to the best of my knowledge, no one has a kit, or detailed instructions on how to put it together that were reliable enough to print.
Since that particular Q&A column hit the newsstand, I got several emails back with suggestions on how to make the swap happen. To my amazement, they were all consistent with each other, giving me the sense that it has been done successfully many times before. The first thing I thought is how I can get this back to the readers who were left unanswered in the first mention of the swap.
Obviously, we can't know everything, but this proves with a little help, any piece of knowledge you desire can be acquired if it's out there. So here it is.
Flywheel/Clutch
Since the T-Types came with automatic transmissions,the flexplate needs to be replaced with a flywheel. The non-turbo 3.8L V-6 came with a manual transmission in other cars, so the replacement parts are out there. McLeod carries the required '77-87 even-fire 160-tooth flywheel in steel and aluminum. These part numbers are 467100-6A, and 567100-6A, respectively. The clutch part numbers depend on what transmission you end up using, but put in a call to McLeod, and you'll have some part numbers to work with.
Pedal Assembly
Again, since other A-/G-bodies had manuals, the pedal assemblies fit right in, with only a few new holes to be drilled. These assemblies can be borrowed from '78-81 Malibu or other A-body cars.
Bell Housing
There are basically two different GM bellhousings, the Chevrolet and the Buick-Olds-Pontiac (BOP). The BOP found in '78-81 A-body cars can be used behind the 3.8L motor with a 10.5-inch clutch disc. Marc of Garage-scene.com found this interesting option: the '82-83 F-body came with a manual transmission that was not a T5-it used a very unique bellhousing (casting 14037657). The transmission is mounted in a "straight-up" fashion, not rotated at 17 degrees like the T5. The fork geometry is correct for use in a '78-88 A-/G-body. This bellhousing has both the Chevrolet bolt pattern, and the BOP bolt pattern, like on the TH 200-4R.
Throwout Bearing/Clutch Fork
If you have decided to stick with a linkage-style clutch, you will need to graft the donor A-body's linkage to your Regal. There are many mechanical parts in this system that have not stood the test of time as well as we would've liked. Another option is to use a cable-operated clutch. It's much simpler to install, and has fewer moving parts. For example, that era Chevy Monza has a cable-operated clutch you can take the parts from. A third option is to use a hydraulic throwout bearing from Keisler. This would mean installing a clutch master cylinder, lines, and the bearing.
Transmission/Crossmember
The most attractive swap is the T56 from the Dodge Viper. It is a BorgWarner-built six-speed that is one step tougher then the T56s found in Camaros and Firebirds. Gilbert Chevrolet modifies these transmissions to replace the T5 found in third-generation F-bodies. The T5 is an option as well, and won't need to be modified. A common crossmember used for this application is from a '79 V-6 Malibu. It is used on the '78-87 A-/G-body, and is part number 473725.
Driveshaft
The driveshaft length will need to be changed, depending on the transmission of choice. Call your local driveshaft shop for measuring instructions to have your driveshaft adapted.