hey yall!

i just bought a '68 camaro. its a base model, numbers not matching. the plan was to get it tuned up and on the street for spring and summer and then do a full resto next winter. end goal is to be a sweet ride, that i built, that i can drive maybe not daily, but a lot. i want to have fun with it.

it was originally a 6cyl. manual transmission. since then a 350 with a th350 trans has been put in it. i just did the brakes and got it out on the street for the first time this past weekend. drives ok. drum brakes need adjusted(or maybe thats just how weak 4 wheel drums are????), transmission was making some funny noises, ect.. little stuff needs some attention.

well, my dad and i used to race and he offered me his 383 stroker. he's gonna drive it down in march or april. we'll need to freshen it up, and also install a new cam. when we install this, i also want to install a new transmission, a manual.

so my two question:

1. whats a solid manual transmission? i'm seeing all the 5/6 speeds from summit and other distributors that sell "kits." is this the best option? or is there a crossover transmission out there i may be able to find in a salvage yard and have rebuilt?

2. are there any good blueprinting sites that might help steer me in a direction as far as an aggressive street cam for the 383?

thanks guys and i appreciate the help!!