GT30

Friends, Does anyone know what difference in top speed would changing from a 3:15 to a 3:73 make on a C-5?
Is the 3:73 the best ratio for performance/drivability? This is for a daily driver and not an all out race car.
Also, are ther any speed calculators out there that you have found accurate?
Thanks.
GT

Colonel

In either case you'll be limited by power, not gearing.

I use this one... http://www.richmondgear.com/101032.html

Don't forget to consider converter slippage if it's to be unlocked.

3.73 is a good street/strip converter but honestly, if you have a good converter (3500+) there's not a whole lot to be gained by going with more gear.

GT30

Colonel
I now have a Vigilante 2800 stall, basically I am trying to get a bit quicker ETs, while retainig highway drivability. 2400 RPMs at 75 MPH is livable, 2700-2900 would not be.

GT

Colonel

How much is "a bit". What I mean is how much of a gain would you want for the sacrafices? You have what is truly a ~3200 stall which makes gear changes less beneficial than they would be if you were running a stock stall. The more stall you run, the less and less you need more gearing at the track. If you're looking to ring out every last bit of ET then gears would do you well. Just don't go into it expecting to see 4-5 tenths drop in ET. You won't see that. It'll be more like 1-2 tenths with that converter. Make it a 4000 stall, for instance, and you're looking at less than a tenth by switching to 3.73s.

3.73s will give you 2454 RPM at 75 MPH assuming a stock height tire.

3.73s and a 3500-3800 stall would be a very stout street/strip combo, IMO. Bring plenty of traction!

GT30

Colonel, thank you for your answer, I just ordered the 3.73 gears, seems like a good compromise, a little quicker, and still a nice car to Sunday drive by the countryside.

GT