So I'm doing some digging on Wikipedia, and I find the ratios for all the stock manual transmissions (at least I think it's all of them). As someone who plans to make monstrous torque, I begin to wonder about the '84 econo trans, with it's MUCH taller gearing than almost all the others. Does anyone have experience with this trans? Is it strong enough to hold up to 400+ lb/ft? Thanks to you guys I know the case on the '84's didn't have the strengthening ridges, but does that have a significant impact on the strength of the case, so much so that I need to look for a ridged case?
Also, where else might I be able to find one of the econo 4-speeds other than a Fiero? I hope I don't have to worry about that, but it never hurts to have more info.
is the gears 1st/2nd/3rd/4th taller or is it the final drive gear that's taller.. I'm thinking the latter...
The econo trans (MY8) has a taller fourth gear and final drive than the other four speed transmissions.
400#/ft is way more torque than any of the four speeds were designed for. Cryogenic treatment and an external cage on the housing would up the power handling capabilities somewhat, but expect to become adept at transmission changes .......
From what I understand, the MY8 trans is a rare bird, as most '84 cars came with the 4.10 final trans. And if you want a 4speed to deal with power, then go for the 4 speed that came on the v6's in 85/86 they are geared better for the torque, and the cases are webbed more, so can deal with more strength, and compared to a MY8, are probably easier to get ahold of.
The econo trans (MY8) has a taller fourth gear and final drive than the other four speed transmissions.
400#/ft is way more torque than any of the four speeds were designed for. Cryogenic treatment and an external cage on the housing would up the power handling capabilities somewhat, but expect to become adept at transmission changes .......
From my experience the 4 speeds are quite solid, I have raced a 84 4.10 for multiple races, over 100 hrs in 24 hours of lemons with out a problem. Ran a Getrag, blew up 12 hours. Granted I didn't know the history of either transmission, so the Getrag may have been bad from the start. I know the 4 speed had over 100k miles on it.
Correct, all of the four speeds have overdrive fourth gear.
you happen to have a listing of the different 4 spd and gear % 1st/2nd/3rd/4th.. I'm curous what the o/d % are... I figured that in 84 a 4 spd 4th would be 1 to 1 I know my '84 t/a 4spd was 1 to 1 and the reason for the Optional (extra cost ) 5 speed.. not doubting you.. but why would the general reengineer the car for the 5spd if the 4sp was already o/d.. and getting that past the bean counters.. as dumping a different trans would be costly in parts and in e.p.a. testing has me wondering.. as I know where a 4spd is and it work good in the idea I have for a casket rod..
[This message has been edited by E.Furgal (edited 07-16-2014).]