Gears or Converter

[JHawk]

I've got a 66 with the Poly motor, 727, 2.94 rear. It's running a Schneider 258f cam, light head work, TTI headers, 2 1/2 exhaust, Weiand intake, 600 cfm Holley. The car pulls good from about 2,200 to a little over 5,000, but the time it takes to get to 2,200 is a bit much. I'd like input into whether a set of gears (and ratio), or a higher stall converter is the way to go.

Thanks,
Jim

 

[440Coronet500]

The cam, rear gears, and converter stall work together. Since you didn't list the stall I would say that rear gear needs to be at least a 3:55 to make a difference.

 

[33 IMP]

My opinion : with a GOOD converter and the right stall speed, you'll only notice it when you stab the throttle, and then it will make all the difference in the world. With more gear, it's always there, whether you want it or not.
I would talk to a good converter shop (or a mopar trans specialist) tell them your combo, be honest about your use and goals, and get a recommendation .

 

[Greg Ducato]

If you still want to keep rpm down on the highway you could stay with the 2.94 and step the converter up to a 2200-2400 stall 11 inch converter. This would give you a better response out of the hole and not hurt you top end wise. Going to that converter and a 3.23 will make an even bigger change and still have OK cruising rpm though not as good as the 2.94. I would suggest an add on trans cooler to run in series with the radiator if you increase stall speed, its where most of the trans heat comes from.