trying to decide if upgrading gears is a good idea.....I know this would make the car much snappier, but how is the traction? Do you have to ease into the throttle with the new gears or is it really much worse than stock? Any opinions?
I HAD them in my daily driver. I loved the fun that they were, but I had a hard time with the everyday driveability of them. Every couple of weeks I drive 3 hours to Phx, at 75-80 it would turn like 2500-2600 RPM. If the car was strictly for in town, it might have been OK, you take off in second on a regular basis. Gas mileage SUCKS. I put 3.27's in. I don't really like those either. Too friggin tall and slow, hard to stay in the meat of the powerband. We'll see if the NOVI 1000 clears that up. If not, I'm in the market for 3.55's.
3.73's were the best mod I made to my 88 when it was still on the street. they only added about 300 rpm to my crusing speed at 70 mph and the effect on gas mileage was almost not noticable with my AOD. yes they will break lose quicker, especially on wet pavement, but you get used to them real quick and will figure out exactly how much throttle to use with them. I'd say go for them now!
Posts: 63
Joined: 3/29/2003 From: United States Status: offline
I put them in. What I have found is that : RPM's increased maybe 200-300 Tires spin easier Gas mileage same or unnoticable
More seat of the pants power (seemingly) LOTS OF FUN!!!!
I have an automatic and it may have been the Superchip Microtuner, but after the gear install and the adjustment to the chip, my shifting is way better. Smoother without hard jerks.
I would do it again. I drive the car everyday 25-50 miles minimum and it is way more fun!!! Tahts what it's about right?
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WarpRunner "Warp... a speed well beyond the blink of an eye" 2003GT, C&L 75mm TB,Accufab Plenum, Steeda 3.73 Gears, K&N FIPK, SuperChip Microtuned,Flowmasters,Indiglo Gauges, Billet Door Switches, Wood Trim, XM Satellite Radio, Mach 1000 Sound
sounds like you all pretty much agree gears are good idea......the only other question I have is regarding my transmission. I have a 5spd and was curious if this makes 1st gear even usuable? Is there too much torque to take off in 1st or will I have to leave in 2nd?
Seems like the ones ones that it didn't do much to as far as cruising and gas were autos, anyone else out there with a 5-speed and 373's with info on highway RPM's?
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86 Gt Vert, flowmasters, x-pipe, equal length shorties, 93 block with MAF, CAI, 5 star ponies, KYB's, and underdrive pullies.
"What's with you today? What's with today, today?"
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3.73 gears? - 
