[Chaplin]

I have a 3.31 rear and the TKO 500 with the .82 5th gear. When I bought the trans, the TKO 600 was not available yet. If I were buying today, I would get the TKO 600 for the better 1st gear ratio, but would still use the .82 5th. With the .82 5th, the engine turns about 2600 rpm at 70, which is very comfortable for cruising. At any rpm less, the engine would be lugging. When selecting your gear ratios, keep in mind at what rpm your cam shaft is designed to work the best at and try to end up with the gearing that will get you in the cam's intended operating range.

As for the ERA rear, I have the std jag rear and have absolutely no problems whatsoever with wheel hop. However, that being said, if I were to do it again, I would get the ERA rear if for no other reason than servicing the brakes. You can access the inboard brakes through the trap door, but it would be much easier to service outboard brakes. Plus, the ERA rear is awfully purdy!