gear ratio question and advice

golfnutjetsfan · #1 (**permalink**) 01-22-2004, 10:05 PM

I've done a few searches on the subject and I realize there are quite a number of opinions but I am at the point of decision very soon and would like to here from guys ( and gals of course) with similar setups to what I have in mind. I would also be interested in any links to gear/ speed / ratio calculators, I had a few links stored in my favorites but lost them during the last pc problem. The basics are as follows; stock block 302, fms B303 cam, victor upper and lower intake, 19 lb injectors, 75 mm throttle body and maf, A9L computer, approx 300-320 horse, runs like you know what in the stang its in now. First problem is the darn thing broke 3rd gear and the countershaft in the trans, oops. I'm considering a new trans rather than rebuilding and I'm trying to figure out ratios. I'm leaning toward a 3.55 rear gear and am wondering if the 3.35 first gear in the standard ratio T-5s will be ok in the roadster

or will I be reaching for second gear after 2 seconds and 50 feet. The car is intended as a daily driver type of vehicle, very little track time. I need something that will be tractable around town (stop and go) and turn 2500- 3000 rpm at 70-75 mph on the highway. I'm not interested in pulling the front wheels or turning 4k rpm on the highway. As always gentleman thakyou in advance

Frank

foothills gary · #2 (**permalink**) 01-22-2004, 11:28 PM

Replace the tranny with a TKO2 with .83 fifth gear.Your final drive ratio will be 2.95,which should give a very nice cruise rpm below 3000 at 70-75 mph.It's also highly unlikely that you will be able to break it with the hp&tq you are pushing.However with the Tremec's 3.27 first gear,you might as well write it off, and call it a 4-speed.

Gary

maxrpm · #3 (**permalink**) 01-22-2004, 11:37 PM

Yep, thats the weak link...3rd & counter..bAAM!
I just got done changing over from 3.5 to 4.1. I run a T-5. Change over to a 065 cluster and you can powershift that sucker(if you wanted) I like the 4.1, but then again I'm running 28" tall tires and a high rpm smallblock with very little low end torque. Try this:
www.smokemup.com/auto_math/mph_range2.php

D&L Transmisions(631)351-4387 Larry- he builds a mean T-5 and other tough manual trannys. Call him up-he shares his knowledge.
Good luck,Ed

408cobra · #4 (**permalink**) 01-23-2004, 12:56 AM

355 or 373 for a little more fun

trularin · #5 (**permalink**) 01-23-2004, 05:08 AM

How about a T-56 trans with a .63 final amd a 3.50 ford nine.

Quick, fast and impressive.

mattr762 · #6 (**permalink**) 01-23-2004, 08:56 AM

I've got some calculators on my website.

THIS ONE allows you to calculate your MPH depending on tire size.

THIS ONE allows you to input your gear ratios and tire size so you can see your MPH and RPM.

MetaJacko · #7 (**permalink**) 01-23-2004, 10:21 AM

Hi,

This one may help

http://www.dalesplace.com/htm/inform...calculator.htm

Paul

RedBarchetta · #8 (**permalink**) 01-23-2004, 10:40 AM

I'm running 3.73 (came with the car). Even the previous owner admitted they were a bit steep, and I'd have to agree. I've become adjusted to it. One advantage is that as you pull out of a light, you do hit the rpm's about 3/4 across....gets the heads turning for sure. If I ever have to tear apart the back end, I will probably opt for 3.55's and tone it down a bit.