CD009 Transmission
Why Choose a CD009 transmission for your LS swap?
The transmission you choose significantly impacts your satisfaction with your LS conversion. Not only that, but it also plays an essential role in your ability to complete an LS swap successfully.
Although we don't sell the CD009 transmission itself, only the CD009 adapter kit, here's a link to where to buy a CD009 transmission and how much does a CD009 transmission cost.
View our CD009 adapter for your LS Swap
Because of their reliability and performance, it’s common to choose a T-56 transmission for an LS Swap. Nevertheless, going this route can be pricey. With T-56s and other 6-speed transmissions becoming increasingly rare, surging prices leave enthusiasts looking for cheaper alternatives.
Common Transmission
Typically, those looking to perform high horsepower motor swaps choose a T-56. As of January 2020, a standard T-56 averages $2,500. For someone looking to complete a 6-speed LS swap without spending a lot of money, the T-56 may be out of their budget.
Finding Alternatives
Nevertheless, affordable 6-speed options still exist. Perhaps the best budget-conscious transmission for any motor swap is the CD009 transmission found in the ’05-’06 350z and g35. Costing only $1,700 brand new from Nissan or around half the price used, this 6-speed transmission is the perfect solution for those on a budget.
Although intended for use in a select number of cars, a growing community of enthusiasts has brought adapter plates to the market, which allows this transmission easily adapted. G Force offers “bolt-on” adapter plates to mate the CD009 to LS and Vortec motors. In addition to adapter plates for the LS series of engines, a search for CD009 adapter plates will present a wide variety of options. From Honda and Toyota to Ford, there is likely an adapter plate that makes this transmission work for you.
How Does It Compare?
The Strengths
When considering this transmission, the biggest and most appropriate question is, will it hold the power of my motor swap? The CD009 has gained its popularity in the swap community through consistently holding high power. Although there are no official torque ratings for this transmission, it has proven reliable in cars with over 1000 whp, which is more than enough strength for the average motor swap. Consequently, those looking for an alternative 6-speed for their LS swap should look no further. Although this transmission has proven its strength, some confuse the strong CD009 with earlier generation transmission found in the ’03-’04 350z. The earlier version was known to grind between gears. It should be noted that halfway through 2004, they updated these transmissions with stronger triple cone synchronizers in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gear. When compared to the typical T-56 magnum, which only has triple cone synchronizers in 1st and 2nd, the CD009 is an amazing transmission for the price.
Final Consideration - Gearing
The last thing to consider about this transmission is the gearing. Gearing plays an enormous role in how your vehicle performs. Long gear ratios accelerate slow, but offer higher top speeds and less shifting time, while shorter gear ratios will help accelerate your car faster but force you to shift more often. When considering gear ratios, the lower the number, the higher the gear ratio.
When comparing the ratios between the CD009 and T-56, it becomes apparent that the T-56 offers much longer gears. For those looking to remain in the motor's powerband on the track or with spirited driving, a CD009 is a great option. However, a T-56 performs better in drag racing applications where the longer gears reduce shifting time.
Gear Ratio Comparison
The Pros:
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- Inexpensive
- Readily Available
- Smooth Shifts
- Very Strong
The Cons:
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- Gearing
- Gearing
The Conclusion
Although the CD009 is an underdog in the swap community, it has proven to be a reliable and stable swap option. Those looking to swap out their transmission with a CD009 will be pleased to know that several adapter plates make this transmission work with whatever motor they utilize.
Find out more about G Force Z32 5-speed, Z33 6-speed or Frontier/Xterra transmission adapter kits for your LS swap.