4:10 gear ratio question....

[Vette73]

I read somewhere that the ideal gear ratio for these cars are 4:10s

From what I read,Chevy originally wanted to install these,but the EPA gas mileage for the car at that time,would have been too low to satisfy...

I'm really not worried about gas mileage and seeing how I will be living between 2500-5500 rpm I'm thinking of installing...

I really don't know anyone that has this car with this set up so I could test drive first, so I'm left just to ask for opinions at this time..

What brand name set is good? I have OBX headers, OBX catback,Marc's chip, external engine temp wire relocated and hurst shifter...

I'm sure there are a lot of members with this sort of set up that have the 4:10 gears....

Opinions?

[PhillipsLT5]

This 1 will strike up some comments, but for me close to redline in 4th at 1/4, mile, close to redline in 5th at mile, have not lost much mpg, makes 5th usable on street, all good

[ZR1North]

Originally Posted by PhillipsLT5

This 1 will strike up some comments, but for me close to redline in 4th at 1/4, mile, close to redline in 5th at mile, have not lost much mpg, makes 5th usable on street, all good

Ditto for me. Really liking this conversion from both a street and very occasional road course perspective.

[Bob Eyres]

This topic always brings out radically different opinions from all the different ZR-1'ers. I respect them all.....but.
You'll notice the overall consensus seems to be that 4.10 gears are a great compromise street gear, and will improve overall driveability. That is my opinion too.

If you think about it, Where, and at what speed, do we have the most fun in our cars? Let's say from 10 mph to 130 mph. Is there anyone outside a few speed freaks that spends a lot of time above that speed? So, if that's where your driving, why not drive a four speed? These 4.10 gears allow you to use four forward gears for normal highway driving, and drag racing, and have two more, 5th for top end, and sixth for mileage. It's a "no brainer".
Even Chris (Killshots), changed his mind after spending more time behind the wheel with his new 4.10's

I've got some experience with manual transmissions. But sold my last three speed stick back in 1963. By that time every sports car enthusiast, hot rodder, or drag racer, was aware that the four speed was the way to go. Anyone that tells you that a stick shift three speed is the best way to cover a quarter mile is, let's be charitable, making a mistake.
Probably, and no one to my knowledge has tested this, the best gear for the quarter in the ZR-1 is 4.56. Any engine that can pull to 7,500 rpm can handle a high gear like that. It's simple math.
Some say,....but then you've got no traction in first. Traction? that's the problem I want to have. You just need a little more tire. And on the street you can always leave from a stop in second gear. You rarely use sixth, why not only use first for hard launches.

Different strokes for different folks. But for the GM test engineers, and me, 4.10's are the ideal street gear for this car.
JMHO.

[XfireZ51]

W Z06 wheels my tires are about 1" taller than stock. I currently am using 3.73 gears. W the taller tire, I'm thinking the 4.10s would work as if a stock tire w maybe 3.73 or possibly 3.90s. Should be a nice combo.

[HIZNHRZ]

Originally Posted by XfireZ51

W Z06 wheels my tires are about 1" taller than stock. I currently am using 3.73 gears. W the taller tire, I'm thinking the 4.10s would work as if a stock tire w maybe 3.73 or possibly 3.90s. Should be a nice combo.

I also have C6 Z06 sized wheels/tires and 4:10 gears. You're spot on.

I had the 4:10s with OE sized wheels/tires for 8 years with no compliants. The taller wheels make a difference though and I can say I like the car with the taller tires better.

[Billy Mild]

I was told my car has 3.73's in my car. It seems to be fine. I have not gotten close to the 25 MPG mark though. I hope with using cruise the next trip I take I get that.

[Jagdpanzer]

For my driving style one of the best modes I've made. However, I fully respect those who have a different opinion about this.

[Scrrem]

I'm runnig 4:10's and averaged around 23 MPG going to BG.
Rich

[We Gone]

Had 4:10's in a 90 was Ok. Went with 3:73's this time for my 91 and like them much better for street driving. You really need to drive one before you drop the $'s to see if they fit your style.