Why choose a CD009 transmission
The highest quality, best performing CD009-JK shifter available period. Autosports Engineering 2JZGTE 2JZ 1JZ 2JZGE Engine to 350Z CD009 6-speed Transmission Adapter – Package Sale! $ 1,299.99 $ 1,099.99-Add to cart; Autosports Engineering 2JZGTE 2JZ 1JZ 2JZGE Engine to 350Z CD009 6-speed Transmission Adapter & Flywheel Combo Sale! $ 949.00 $ 849.99-Add to cart. The CD00A is identical to its predecessor, the CD009. This is the current updated part number used by Nissan and is in no way different than the CD009. Clutch and flywheel are not included however they do come pre-filled with factory fluid. So this transmission will not fit a 2008 350 HR?
Sometimes the choice of transmission used in an engine swap isn’t given the consideration it deserves. However, your satisfaction with the results hinges on the transmission you choose. The success of your LS conversion depends on it. That is why a CD009 is worth considering.
Cd009 Trans
Commonly, a T-56 transmission is the first choice for a high horsepower LS swap. It has a good reputation for performance and reliability. Still, it can be expensive. The average cost of a new LS T-56 is $2,500. Because they are increasingly scarce, rising prices for the T-56 and other 6-speed transmissions leave enthusiasts searching for less costly options. The CD009 is an excellent possibility.
CD009 the best budget-conscious transmission
The CD009 is an affordable 6-speed option that works. Because these transmissions are plentiful, they are less expensive than the more well-known alternatives. Costing about $1,700 brand new, the Nissan CD009 is found in the ’05-’06 350z and g35. Used, it sells for around half that price, which makes it the perfect solution for those on a budget. A quick search reveals there are many sites where you can find a CD009 transmission for sale.
Initially intended for a select group of cars, the CD009 transmission found a growing community of fans among car enthusiasts. Its popularity created enough demand that the automotive aftermarket took notice. Subsequently, third-party manufacturers designed quite a few parts to simplify the installation of the CD009.
CD009 Adapter and Adapter Kits from G Force
The “bolt-on” adapter plate offered by G Force easily mates the Nissan CD009 to LS and Vortec motors popular in GM conversions. The adapter plate is uniquely designed to require very little transmission modification. A minor clearance trim on the inside of the bellhousing ring gear is all that is needed. Trimming means polishing off 0.06″ from an area the size of a postage stamp. The G Force kit includes:
- Custom Steel Flywheel
- 3/8 Steel Adapter Plate with a Powder Coated Finish
- Pilot Bushing and Adapter
- Hi-Torque Starter Adapter (Standard Hi-Torque Mini Starter for SBC engine is used and not included.)
- Mounting Hardware
Further details regarding the LS to CD009 Adapter Kits are available on our products page.
Additionally, the market also has a wide variety of adapter plates available for many makes, including Toyota, Honda, Ford, and others. It is very likely an adapter plate exists to make this transmission work for you.
Will it hold power?
The fundamental question is, will it hold the power of my motor swap? The CD009 is popular in the swapping community because it consistently holds high horsepower. Unofficially, this transmission has more than enough strength for the average motor swap. Tested and proven reliable in cars with over 1000 whp, it goes far beyond most drivers’ requirements. Therefore, those looking for an alternative 6-speed for their LS swap should look no further.
It is important to note that this transmission is not confused with the earlier generation found in the 2003-2004 350z. Previous versions were known to grind between gears. However, in mid-year 2004, Nissan updated the transmission. The upgrade to stronger triple cone synchronizers in 1st, 2nd, and 3rd gears eliminated that problem. Now, even when compared to the T-56 Magnum, the CD009 is an incredible transmission for the price.
What about gearing?
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Gearing plays an essential role in how your vehicle performs. Although long gear ratios accelerate more slowly, they provide less shifting time and higher top-end speeds. Conversely, shorter gear ratios require that you shift more often but help you accelerate faster. When considering the information on the CD009 Gear Ratio table below, remember that the lower the number, the longer the gear ratio—translation: slow acceleration but better fuel economy.
When comparing a CD009 to a T-56, the results show much longer gears for the T-56. Therefore, for acceleration and performance both on and off the track, the better choice is the Nissan CD009. The exception is drag racing, where longer gear ratios reduce shifting time. The T-56 performs better in that situation.
CD009 Gear Ratio Comparison
| Gear | T-56 | CD009 |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2.66 | 3.78 |
| 2nd | 1.78 | 2.32 |
| 3rd | 1.30 | 1.62 |
| 4th | 1.00 | 1.27 |
| 5th | 0.74 | 1.00 |
| 6th | 0.50 | 0.79 |
Why choose a CD009?
People choose this transmission for reasons as varied as the enthusiasts themselves. However, some of the most popular stand out.
- Widely available
- Affordable
- Shifts smoothly
- Proven reliable
- Holds high power
- Large parts aftermarket
Although an underdog in the swap community, it is a solid swap option. Find out more about LS Conversions, and our adapter kit for your LS swap.
Our team of experts is ready to Chat with you or give us a call at 330-753-5300.
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.
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
| Gear | T-56 | CD009 |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 2.66 | 3.78 |
| 2nd | 1.78 | 2.32 |
| 3rd | 1.30 | 1.62 |
| 4th | 1.00 | 1.27 |
| 5th | 0.74 | 1.00 |
| 6th | 0.50 | 0.79 |
The Pros:
- Inexpensive
- Readily Available
- Smooth Shifts
- Very Strong
The Cons:
- 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 Z33 or Z32 6-speed transmission and our adapter for your LS swap.