there is some math to do in regards to the rear end. Multiply the rear end gear by the first gear. You want to be over 9 and under 10 IDEALLY.
example:
Rear end: 3:23 ratio TIMES First gear on tranny 2.85
EQUALS
9.21
That gets you off the line correctly.
If you have 2.90 gears or something in the rear end and put a M-22 (2.52 first gear)in, you will not be happy getting off the line as the math comes out to 7.31. A so-called "close ratio M-22 would have an even higher first gear at 2.20, so that would be very bad off the line...This is why you would see that transmission with a 4:11 rear end oftentimes, where you get the total gear value at 9.04.
You want to be over a "nine" so just do your math, when going with a 4 speed
If it is too high, you will be gear bound. So do some homework upon switching it up, and change the gears somewhere, either in the tranny or in the rear end if need be.
Good luck.
1969 Firebird 350 Coupe, Rust free Texas body, formerly brown, now a TA clone with quality spoiler, latching hood and TA wheel; 1969 GTO Convertible Expresso Brown/Parchment(currently painted red). Both numbers matching. My first love was a Cameo White 67 326 Coupe, bought back in 1983, at the age of 17, for $1,200. Been hooked since on PONTIAC! Working on a 67 400 ragtop for customization-Gulf Turquoise/Parchment/400/4 spd! My winter project!
