Hey everyone,

I'm in the process of upgrading my 3800 V6 to use the F35 manual transmission. I want to make sure I'm getting the correct transmission that will bolt up to the 3800 without needing an adapter plate.

From my research, it looks like the ideal donor vehicles for the F35 are:

2004-2007 Saturn Ion Redline (2.0L Supercharged, LSJ, MU3, with or without G85 limited-slip differential)
2005-2007 Chevrolet Cobalt SS (2.0L Supercharged, LSJ, MU3, same G85 option for LSD)

I want to avoid any F35 units from Ecotec engines with the L61 (2.2L) and M86 transmission codes since they won’t have the correct GM 60-degree V6 bellhousing pattern.

Here is one core I found and want to be sure it is the MU3 opt G8 for the limited slip version.

2005
Transmission Assembly
Saturn Ion TESTED BEFORE PULLED - EXCELLENT CONDITION - 90 DAY WARRANTY/EXCHANGE W/CORE (MT, 2.0L, 5spd opt MU3, opt G8)

Does anyone have the Part Number or sub-model for the correct F40?

I know this has been discussed, but I would rather double check before I bought it.

The cars that you mentioned have Ecotec engines and the transmissions that come with them will not bolt up. If you want a manual the F 23 will bolt up but IMO the F40 may be the best choice.

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" THE BLACK PARALYZER" -87GT 3800SC Series III engine, custom ZZP /Frozen Boost Intercooler setup, 3.4" Pulley, Northstar TB, LS1 MAF, 3" Spintech/Hedman Exhaust, P-log Manifold, Autolite 104's, MSD wires, Custom CAI, 4T65eHD w. custom axles, Champion Radiator, S10 Brake Booster, HP Tuners VCM Suite.
"THE COLUSSUS"
87GT - ALL OUT 3.4L Turbocharged engine, Garrett Hybrid Turbo, MSD ign., modified TH125H
" ON THE LOOSE WITHOUT THE JUICE "

F23 would be your best option for availability and cost. Both the F23 and F40 are strong enough but the cost of associated with the F40 are going to be much higher than the F23. As far as which is best, I don't think there is a "best" as it will all depend on you.

[This message has been edited by Spadesluck (edited 02-20-2025).]

No F35 came with the GM Metric bellhousing used on the 3800.