If you’re contemplating purchasing a Ford Mustang, then you’re not alone. Numerous sports car lovers opt to purchase Ford Mustangs because they’re simply just beautiful and high-performing cars. However, many people who are on the market for the perfect Mustang aren’t sure whether they should opt for one that comes with a TR3650 or a T45 transmission, because they’re not sure which one has the fewest problems and the best functionality and not to mention power handling capability. Here is a side-by-side comparison of these two Ford Mustang transmissions, so you can decide which choice will best meet your needs:
Transmission specs
The TR3650 was first welcomed to the Mustang’s 2001 model, and Ford made the decision to replace the T45 transmission with the TR3650 because they felt that this vehicle needed a transmission that could handle more torque. Additionally, the T45 was failing to perform as expected and required frequent repairs and replacement.
Specs – TR3650 Specs – T45
1st gear: 3.38 1st gear: 3.37
2nd gear: 2.00 2nd gear: 1.99
3rd gear: 1.32 3rd gear: 1.33
4th gear: 1.00 4th gear: 1.00
5th gear: 0.67 5th gear: 0.67
Reverse: 3.38 Reverse: 3.22
Torque capacity: 360 lb-ft Torque capacity: 375 lb/ft
5 Vs TR3650 Power handling capabilities
Many Mustang owners state that the “feel” of the T45 is superior to the TR3650 and that it’s more precise, as the TR3650 feels “cheaper” and is often less reliable, especially when it comes to shifting in a precise manner. The T45 is also cheaper to repair, and even though the TR3650 is more expensive to fix, it’s also more prone to problems, according to various Mustang owners. The TR3650 was intended to be a much-improved replacement for the T45, but many Mustang owners continue to notice problems with the TR3650 missing gears while shifting, especially the 2nd gear, and numerous owners of Mustangs with the TR3650 transmission in them have complained about their 2nd gear completely failing, https://reman-transmission.com/transmission-codes/?code=TR3650. This has required them to either have their transmission rebuilt or replaced, which is quite expensive.
The T45 is certainly no gem either, as it has had its fair share of power handling weaknesses, which is why it was replaced in the first place, but each Mustang owner has had a different experience. If you’re not sure which transmission you like best, then you may have to compare the above specs and possibly even talk to the different manufacturers and various mechanics in order to make a final decision.
Can you swap a T45 for a TR3650?
If your Mustang’s T45 transmission has failed and you’re interested in swapping it for the TR3650, then you need to know if the transmission will be compatible with your specific model of Mustang. Technically, you can swap out a T45 transmission and put in a TR3650, but there will be some minor issues to contend with. First of all, the flywheel, clutch, and bearing will be different, so you will need a professional to perform the swap. The professional mechanic is knowledgeable about the specific differences, as well as how to get around these issues, so you can drive your Mustang with the new TR3650 engine. You will also likely need a new shifter, as well, since they are totally different with each transmission, but again, your mechanic can properly advise you.
Is the later model TR3650 better than the original 2001 version?
Due to the fact that many of the original TR3650 transmissions failed to function as expected, the manufacturers, TREMEC, developed new and improved TR3650 transmissions, which were put in later model Mustang vehicles. These improved transmissions fixed a majority of the original problems, which resulted in fewer malfunctions and happier Mustang owners. So, if you would like to opt for a Mustang with the TR3650 transmission, then you might want to choose one that has the new and improved version of the TR3650. This means that you would have to choose a Mustang from approximately 2003 and up, but you need to verify the transmission that’s in the vehicle before you purchase it, as it could have been replaced.
Obviously, neither the T45 nor the TR3650 are exceptional transmissions, especially in the beginning, but if you’re trying to choose between the two, hopefully, you will conduct enough research to determine which one will best meet your needs. If you don’t think that either transmission will meet your needs, then you could always opt for the T56 or another transmission of your choice.
