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Old 11-08-2003, 03:36 PM
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Default to gear or not to gear....

I have the listed mods on my car and use as a daily driver. I love the car, but do not race it. I am thinking about getting a 224 cam later and want new gears now for the rear. Should I go with the 3.73 or 4.10. 2001 Trans Am WS6 w/M6.
Old 11-08-2003, 08:50 PM
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z98
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I'm pretty happy with my 3.73's.

Any lower wouldn't give the same power.

If it was my choice I'd go a bit higher, 4.10 or 4.30. Actually I'd make sure I didn't have to shift into 5th in the 1/4 so probably 4.10

I wouldn't pay to make the jump from 3.42 to 3.73.

So maybe try the 4.10's? They will only be a couple hundred RPM higher than the 3.73 on the highway.

You probably won't be more than 2500 RPM at 85. I think it'll be about 2300 or so.

Last edited by z98; 11-08-2003 at 09:24 PM.
Old 11-08-2003, 09:25 PM
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I think you'll find quite a variety of replys to the 3.73 vs 4.10/4.11 comparison.

I have 4.10s. I have had standard automatic muscle cars with 4.30s, no overdrive. 75 mph @ 3500 rpm in a 440 big block is what I would consider unlivable. I traded those back then for some 3.73s.

I cruise on the hwy doing 75 @ 2050rpm. That is extremely livable compared to the prior scenario, and performance driving is great. 1st is still usable, although I do some 2nd gear starting. It is definately a quicker car with the 4.10's. I just didn't think the 3.73s were enough of a change to warrant the costs. Best bet would be to locate someone with both gears, and see for yourself. good luck with what ever you decide!
Old 11-08-2003, 10:46 PM
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Thanks guys, that helped me alot. I think you are both right. I will probably go with the 4.10s and see what happens. Like I said, it's not a racer, but just a daily driver. Of course even as a daily driver, I still want to "feel more power". That's what it's all about though, right? Thanks again for the help.
Old 11-09-2003, 01:06 AM
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With stock tires, an M6, and 4.10 gears, you'd be doing 2280 RPM at 85 mph.

3.42 - 1901 RPM @ 85 MPH

3.73 - 2073

4.10 - 2280

4.30 - 2390

4.56 - 2534

Looking at this, I'll definately be getting 4.10 gears if I get a new rearend.




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