imported_BlackZ28

I was wondering how hard it would be to swap an auto out of a 1994 Z and replace it with a 6spd. The auto is nice and all but the gearing is really tall...I don't know if it would be any different with a 6spd. Is it as simple as dropping the auto and getting the plastics needed for the manual and popping it in? or....Input would be great. Thanks

archemedes

you need to change some engine parts, a new crossmember, cut a hole in the floor, change the console I believe (at least the shifter area) expect to spend over a grand to do it right not including the trans, for about half that you can change your rear gear

imported_BlackZ28

Thanks. So what would be a good rear gear to upgrade to. I don't want anything too aggressive but I just want a little more acceleration down low. As for the auto, Does it hold up well to power and just being romped on every now and again?

archemedes

the auto is the stronger one, the manual has issues with power. As for the gear it depends on what else has been done, and what type of driving you do (do you like interstate travel?)

V6Cam

Aren't the Auto LT1 rear gear 3.42?

imported_BlackZ28

I'm gonna be doin pretty much alot of different driving. Interstate, city. I'm just lookin for a gearing that isn't too aggressive but will be able to break the tires loose in regular driving gear if I get on it. I heard that 3.73 or something was pretty close to what I am looking for.

98CamaroZ28

or sell your Z28 for a Manual Z28... prob more trouble then its worth... I break loose with 2.73's LSD no traction controll, but yea 3.73's will get you there pretty nicely.

archemedes

3.73's are a good compromise gear, breaking tires loose is not a matter of gear really, any car can do it (I have done it in a geo meto 3 cylinder)

imported_BlackZ28

Well, breaking the tires loose aside, what about 4.10's? How big of a difference would it be compared to stock?

archemedes

4.10's don't try and drive interstate unless you like reving the engine to the moon, it will kill top end power, but you'll get to that top end quick

imported_BlackZ28

3.73's I won't have to rev too much higher than the 3.23's? ...Just a random thought, how much generally, would a shop charge to install new gears in the rearend?

archemedes

a shop will be probably about $1000 I think it varies area to area though

imported_BlackZ28

Thanks for all the help you guys are great

FORCE_FED_Z

Sounds kinda high for setting up gears IMO- I wouldn't go anything more that 3.73's- even those you might find are a little aggressive for what you want.

As for the swap- don't forget you need to swap out the pedals and get the slave cylinder and such- but sounds like you decided on the gears in the rear instead. If you are going to drive the car hard start saving your money for a tranny rebuild-

98CamaroZ28

4L80e imo would be a good transmission. There are kits to convert the 4L60e into the 80e, i want the 4L80e myself, I know my dad's escalade has the 80e and 3.73's, its pretty quick for a big SUV, 6.0L LQ9 360 hp...