Looking for a little input on a tranmission issue. I have a 68 cuda with a 340 engine (460HP, 430 ft-lbs torque) using an 8 3/4 rear end with 3:55 gears (May change them later). The car has been converted to a manual 4 speed and I have the 833 OD unit alreardy built but not installed. I am concerned about the wide ratio spread between 1st and 2nd, but wanted to drive the car on the highway (same old story that many have faced).
So, I have a few options listed below and would like to get some feedback from the rest of the group.
1) Stick with the 833OD and see how it goes. Some concern on the wide ratio spread as well as strength (4th is going through countershaft instead of a direct drive)
2) Install GearVendors unit (around $2400) and improve the spread between the gears, essentially turning the 833 into an 8 speed.
3) Buck up and buy the Tremec 5 speed kit ($3400 for all goodies). This requires a fair amount of modification and has a wide gear spread between 1st and 2nd.
Definetly like to hear from anyone that has experience with any of the above options. The car is primarily built for a street car, but might just make to the track occasionally.