Hey Rick,

Tall order. Let's see if I can help.

Start here: http://www.mcgaughysclassic.com/

Mike makes good stuff for tri-five chevys. I've used his parts and have been quite satisfied. He's done, by his own count, over 35,000 605 kits. One of the first to do it.

As for the engine, even if rusted some, it should be rebuildable. The question is, will it be worth it? I'm a fan of GM Performance crate motors. They have a wide range of BB engines to meet many power and price needs. Plus you get a warrantee, and, you can get it at your local Chevrolet dealer, or one of the mail order dealers that will discount a bit.

McGaughy also has the engine and trans mounts, both stock location and 3/4 inch setforward. Dimpling the fire wall is not that big an issue, if done carefully, most people won't even notice it. Just make sure it's done BEFORE painting the firewall. If you don't like the McGaughy parts, there are other BB kits available. Get a magazine aimed at Chevy street machines and there will probably be half a dozen ads from companies that offer alternatives.

I haven't done the trans swaps you're talking about, but there are a few basics. I don't know much about the six speed, so I'll pass on that, other than to say, it has some electronic controls that may need to be by-passed, or "fooled" with a special harness arrangement. Five speeds are easier. There are several choices. The one that seems most popular right now is the Tremec. They handle a lot of torque, have become very common over the past few years, and are made to bolt to a normal Chev bell housing. If you use the stock location engine/trans mounts, the Z bar linkage for the clutch should still line up fine. Otherwise, hydraulic will work. There are two types to my knowledge, the external slave cylinder variety, and the hydraulic throwout bearing type. The drawback I see to the throwout bearing type is if it developes a leak, it's harder to get to for repair or replacement. Just my opinion. The other advantage to the Tremec is that it has three shift linkage placement locations. The standard is the farthest back placement which would probably interfere with the '57's seat. In years past, guys have had a notch cut in the front of the seat frame/cushion by their upholsterer to clear, but I've always thought that an unsatisfactory solution. The Tremecs will require an extra cost adapter, available from them, that will allow placement further forward. Check out http://www.fortesparts.com/index.html they are reputed to be the best suppliers of Tremec, as well as other 5 speed transmissions. They've probably already been down the road you're looking for.

One last personal thing. You didn't make mention of lowering the car. You gotta have him lower it!!!! It's the only way to make them look right!!

Enjoy!!