Tri-Z trans question

[XTrumpX]

I recently purchased a '85 Tri-Z with a 5 speed. Question: what is the difference between the '85 and '86 in terms of engine? Can I convert the '85 engine into a 6 speed trans from a '86 motor? Will it fit or when they made changes in '86, did they change the whole engine?

If that can't work, is there another 6 speed engine out there to where it's gears would fit into the '85? I want to keep the motor but upgrade the trans if possible. Thanks for your time.

[Kintore]

You can plop a 86 trans into a 85 and make it a 6 speed. Motors were pretty much the same between years. Hope this helps!

[Bryan Raffa]

YES swap the whole tranny! gears,shift drum,shift forks

[XTrumpX]

That does help. Can anyone else confirm so I can move forward? I trust your answer but second opinions always help. If anyone has done this, is there anything I should look out for?

[XTrumpX]

Ok, must have been typing at the same time :) Thanks for the reply.

[Bryan Raffa]

great time to replace crank bearings and seals wile you got it apart!!!!

[XTrumpX]

Whenever I buy anything, I usually do a complete teardown to check on any worn parts so it doesn't cost more in the future. I just figured since I'll have this one apart next month, I'd upgrade the trans if possible. Anything else I should look at or replace? Never owned a Z before.

[Bryan Raffa]

check the shift shaft for bent or bad splines, check the clutch baskit gear for excessive play and grooves in the baskit from plates,the clutch rod for wear on the ends and the ball for flat spots,replace the water pump impeller with one that yamahondaman makes! solid alum...

[ATC-Eric]

Does the 86 tranny have a higher top speed? What are the perks to having the 6 speed? If the 85 and 86 have the same top speed, I would assume to keep my 5 gears.

[clutchcargo]

Go with the 86' 6-speed. I wish I had the extra gear on mine. And yes it should be faster.

[03 ORANGE SHEE]

i did the swap, better low end, more top end speed

[XTrumpX]

i did the swap, better low end, more top end speed
You confirmed what I was told. Now, need to find a six speed :)