T-5 first gear...who uses it, who doesn't?

[YerDugliness]

I find myself seldom using first gear in my Cobra...unless I want to smoke 'em across an intersection, which doesn't happen often.

I'm just curious how many of y'all use first gear on a regular basis...do you or don't you?

Why?

For me first gear is more suited to parades than to everyday driving. I can start from a dead stop in 5th, so low-end torque from the engine isn't a problem...maybe too much multiplication from the first gear ratio?

I hate to admit it, but I use my T-5 almost like a 3 speed....second gear to get started from a stop, then to fourth for chugging around town, and fifth gear for freeway driving. Even with the huge rear tires on my Cobra there is plenty of power from a dead stop in second gear to burn rubber, and if I give it a bit of power before I release the clutch I can smoke 'em from a dead stop in 2nd, too.....

I'm guessing the factory differential gearing for the Mustang GT must have been pretty long....smallish tires and the need to keep R's down at highway speed to help the corporate fuel average?

Cheers!

Doug

[joyridin']

Well, it kind of depends on which T5 you have. I had one from a Mustang SVO with a 4.03 first gear. Great for pulling tree stumps.

[dallas_]

Originally Posted by YerDugliness

I'm guessing the factory differential gearing for the Mustang GT must have been pretty long....smallish tires and the need to keep R's down at highway speed to help the corporate fuel average?

That, plus less power and an extra half ton of weight.

[ffr 1137]

I regeared mine awhile back. Went to 2.95 first...like it alot.
Also changed out the .68 fifth for a .8 that way you're still in
power band when going from fourth. Think I only lose 500rpm
or so.


Mike

[GLS-BDR226]

My A5 has a 2.95 1st gear with a 3.91 rear end. I use it but it hits the shift light quick. Yes, I put in a shift light.