Personally,
I have never liked the Tremec transmission. You have to cut the frame apart to get it to fit and usually one of the gears is worthless.
I drove one car with a Tremec in it and 1st gear was so low I had to shift before I got out of the intersection. The owner told me to just start out in 2nd...hmmm, why have a 5 speed if you just start in 2nd anyway?
I also think the Tremec devalues our car. (Now, I am just referring to the KIRKHAM car here and no one elses.) They are harder to sell.
We have found the best compromise is to run a wide ratio transmission. 1st gear is steeper than a close ratio and it makes street driving much more enjoyable. If you are smart, and put in a low (numerical) gear ratio--like a 3:31, or a 3:08 (like Pat Buckley) you can really have a cruiser of a car. I actually just drove a 2:88 and was extremely pleased with the performance. Cruising at 60 mph was only 2000 rpms. The car didn't want to step out nearly as much as a car with a 3:31--let alone the 3:54 or 3:73. (3:77 was the original gear ratio). I liked it so much I am going to put one in my car.
Of course, I am not the track type guy...just a mountain/canyon cruiser early in the mornings. Heck, I think the 2:88 would do fine on the track anyway (I ain't no Mario Andretti).
As for small input...DON'T. You will twist it off...I have seen it and held the broken parts in my hand for autopsy. (Not our car).
It is easiest if you run a Mustang tail housing. Others will work, but they are really not worth the pain.
Did Steve get you an e-mail so we can finish your car? We are ready when you are. Also, there are some really cool options coming up by the end of the week. (We don't announce until everything is in hand and ready.)
David
