1988 Mustang LX 5.0 Manual Transmission Rebuild Kit

The 1988 Mustang LX 5.0 Manual Transmission Rebuild Kit is a comprehensive solution for restoring the T-5 manual transmission found in the iconic 5.0L V8 Fox Body Mustang. This complete kit includes all necessary components to rebuild your transmission to factory specifications, including synchronizers, bearings, seals, gaskets, and shift forks. Designed specifically for the 1987-1993 Mustang 5.0L T-5 transmission, this kit ensures proper gear engagement, smooth shifting, and reliable performance.

1. Kit Contents 2. Transmission Specifications 3. Installation Requirements 4. Tools Needed 5. Step-by-Step Rebuild Process 6. Torque Specifications 7. Compatibility Information 8. Maintenance Guidelines 9. Warranty Information 10. Troubleshooting

Kit Contents

Complete rebuild kit includes all essential components for T-5 transmission restoration.

Component	Description
1-2 Synchronizer Assembly	Bronze synchronizer rings for smooth 1-2 shifts
3-4 Synchronizer Assembly	High-performance synchronizer for 3rd and 4th gears
5th Gear Synchronizer	Specific synchronizer for overdrive gear
Input Shaft Bearing	Precision bearing for input shaft support
Output Shaft Bearing	Heavy-duty bearing for output shaft
Front Seal	Input shaft seal to prevent leaks
Rear Seal	Output shaft seal for tail housing
Shift Fork Pads	Wear-resistant pads for shift forks
Complete Gasket Set	All necessary gaskets for case and covers
Blocking Rings	Additional synchronizer blocking rings

Transmission Specifications

Original T-5 transmission specifications for 1988 Mustang LX 5.0L.

Transmission Model: Borg-Warner T-5
Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.35, 2nd: 1.93, 3rd: 1.29, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.68
Case Material: Aluminum die-cast
Input Shaft: 10-spline, 1-1/16" diameter
Output Shaft: 28-spline
Fluid Capacity: 3.0 quarts (2.85 liters)
Recommended Fluid: Mercon ATF or equivalent
Torque Rating: 265 lb-ft maximum input torque

Installation Requirements

Proper installation requires transmission removal and disassembly.

Remove transmission: Disconnect driveshaft, shift linkage, clutch cable, and bellhousing bolts.
Drain fluid: Remove drain plug and drain completely.
Disassemble transmission: Remove tail housing, extension housing, and main case.
Clean components: Thoroughly clean all parts in solvent.
Inspect gears and shafts: Check for wear or damage before reassembly.

WARNING! Transmission is heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Wear safety glasses during disassembly.

Tools Needed

Specialized tools required for proper transmission rebuild.

Tool	Purpose
Transmission Jack	For safe removal and installation
Bearing Puller Set	For removing pressed-on bearings
Snap Ring Pliers	Internal and external types needed
Torque Wrench	For proper bolt tightening
Dial Indicator	For measuring end play
Press	For bearing installation
Seal Driver Set	For proper seal installation

Step-by-Step Rebuild Process

Follow this sequence for proper transmission reassembly.

Disassembly: Document component positions; remove gears in order.
Cleaning: Clean all parts thoroughly; inspect for wear.
Bearing replacement: Press off old bearings; install new ones.
Synchronizer assembly: Install new synchronizers with proper orientation.
Gear installation: Install gears with proper clearances.
Shift mechanism: Rebuild shift forks and rails.
Case assembly: Install components in main case.
Final assembly: Install tail housing and extension.
Testing: Check shifting before installation.

CAUTION! Proper bearing preload and gear clearance critical for longevity.

Torque Specifications

Critical torque values for proper assembly.

Component	Torque Value
Case Bolts	18-22 ft-lbs
Tail Housing Bolts	18-22 ft-lbs
Extension Housing Bolts	18-22 ft-lbs
Bellhousing Bolts	28-32 ft-lbs
Drain/Fill Plugs	15-20 ft-lbs
Shift Lever	18-22 ft-lbs

Compatibility Information

Specific vehicle and transmission compatibility.

Vehicle: 1988 Ford Mustang LX 5.0L
Transmission: Borg-Warner T-5 manual
Engine: 5.0L (302ci) V8
Drive: Rear-wheel drive
Also Fits: 1987-1993 Mustang 5.0L with T-5
Not Compatible: Automatic transmissions, World Class T-5 (1994+)

Maintenance Guidelines

Proper maintenance ensures long transmission life.

Fluid changes: Replace ATF every 30,000 miles
Inspection: Check for leaks regularly
Shift quality: Address grinding or difficult shifting immediately
Clutch maintenance: Replace worn clutch components

Tip: Use only recommended transmission fluid for optimal performance.

Warranty Information

Limited warranty coverage for rebuild kit components.

Coverage: 12 months from date of purchase
Parts: All kit components against manufacturing defects
Labor: Not covered - installation is user responsibility
Exclusions: Damage from improper installation, abuse, or racing use
Claims: Contact manufacturer with proof of purchase

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions during rebuild process.

Problem	Possible Cause	Solution
Grinding in 2nd gear	Worn 1-2 synchronizer	Replace synchronizer assembly; check gear teeth
Difficulty shifting into 3rd	3-4 synchronizer worn	Install new 3-4 synchronizer; check shift fork
Transmission leaks	Worn seals or gaskets	Replace all seals; ensure proper installation
Noise in neutral	Input shaft bearing	Replace input shaft bearing; check pilot bearing
Jumping out of gear	Worn shift forks or detents	Replace shift forks; check detent springs

Technical Support: 1-800-555-1988; www.mustangtransmissions.com