Here in San Diego, if you're not doing 75 mph+, you're getting blown off the highway. Also, in this county it's hard to get around without using the highways....long story. So, with that in mind, I went with a 5spd and a 3.42 cog. I wanted the "snap" off the line that some of you have mentioned, but also wanted to cruise at 80+mph without going deaf. ;-) Depending on the tire I end up with, I should be turning between 2300-2400 rpm at 80.
Matt
At 09:20 PM 11/30/2005, Gene Smith wrote:
Hi,
I will be honest and say that while 3.73 are a good compromise in a vehicle that won't see much more than 50 MPH cruising, they totally suck on the highway, especially now that the speeds are about 80 MPH. I have run them in both a 67 Malibu and my 350 powered S-15 and for the country type roads I drive on they are fun and 60 mph is not too obnoxious, but try driving fast on the highway and it just gets tiring.
I am buying the stuff to rebuild my 69's rear end and I am putting 3.08 which will still be about 2600 at 80. When money allows the Gear Vendors unit to be bought, then I will go with 3.73 for a top gear of 2.79 and an 80 cruise rpm of about 2400. While having a 400 horse 383 my goal is 18-22 MPG once I get the overdrive hanging on the back of the turbo 350. I plan on driving some long distance trips with this car.
Gene
- ----- Original Message -----
- From: Clint Hooper
- To: The Chevelle Mailing List
- Sent: Wednesday, November 30, 2005 10:58 PM
- Subject: Re: [Chevelle-list] Ring and Pinion
- Just because I wouldn't want 3.73's without an overdrive trans doesn't mean you won't,Ryan. It's only money.
- Clint Hooper
- H&H Custom,owner
- 1969 El Camino ProTourer
- 2001 H-D FLHR custom bagger
- http://dalesplace.com/misc/friends/clint/clint_hooper.htm
- ----- Original Message -----
- From: Ryan Langstraat
- I know that gear ratio has been a topic a lot lately but I am going to purchase my new set this week. I noticed that some people are running 3:73's and was wondering how they liked them as an all around gear. I noticed that Clint had mentioned that 3:73's were a marginal gear for the highway. I guess what I was wondering was would a numerically lower gear set be a better route for a cruizer? I would still like a little snap at times but I also dont want to be running 4500rpm down the highway. I know there are formulas out there but was wanting personal opinions from people that have cruizers. Let me know what you think.
- Glad I bought a bunch of parts this week becuase it is snowing right now and I can hide in the garage!
- Ryan
