Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

I have a bracket car that runs 6.70's in the 1/8th with 1.43/1.44 60ft
The car has ladder bars/coil overs and i run a 28x10.5 bias slick weighs 3100lbs with driver
I am a huge fan of stock/super stock, especially the wheelstands.

When my car leaves it picks the front tires up about 8" and carries them out @20ft. I would like it to pick them up even higher
I was wondering if i put a low 1st gear in my C4 if it would make a big difference in how the car leaves. Also would it effect how the car runs.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

its probably more the converter and the rear gear that will make the difference. Also how the engine is tuned. My powerglide has a 1.98 low gear and will get the wheels real high if I want it to. I am sure your C4 has a lower gear than that. The engine that I have in the car now actually likes a real tight shock setting and keep the front end down. Each combo will like something different.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

I agree with Mr Pearson. It is more the converter than the low gear set. The stock c-4 has a 2.43 low gear. I run a SS/GT mustang with far less than the stock ratio and my car will drag the bumper without the front end tied down and 50 lbs of ballast on the front.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

so are you saying i need more converter?

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

Also, if you put in a lower first gear, it will definately affect your converter. You will find you won't be able to leave at the same RPM. It will not stall as high after you install a low gear.

I would start with another converter too. What engine are you running now?

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

running a 393W

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

There are too many unknowns to make a blanket statement.
Camshaft?
Heads?
Carb?
HP?

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

The more obvious question should be "Why do you want to pick the wheels up higher" It will slow you down, maybe make you more inconsistent, possibly cause a dangerous turn of the car???? If you want to improve the 60 ft or et then other things should be considered first.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

Why don't you just put a bunch of weight in the trunk?

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

Just remember its the car accelerating that causes the wheel stand, not gearing.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

I agree with Jeff, 200lb weight bar in the trunk should make you happy.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

393W
10:5:1
hydraulic flat tappet 239/247@50 541/565 106 lsa
AFR 185
Holley 950HP
best guess on HP is @500

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

The Low gear will just get the engine in its "happy" power band faster. Your whole issue could just be simple suspension front end modifications.

Email me when you have time and we can further discuss it.

tonyd302@yahoo.com

Dad's 65 Mustang does what you want to do with a 289, less power and less torque than what you have and 60fts better.

Any video is helpful.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

I would say the carb is too big and too much head. Not enough cam. I dont think its any where near 500 HP with those specs.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

Move your ladder bars to the top holes of the mounts if you what to stand it on the bumper.
That will move your instant center way high in front of the car. I promise you she'll wheel stand. 200 lbs. in the trunk won't hurt either.

Re: Question about going to a low 1st gear in a C4
 

Put in lighter front springs. That along with more weight further back should give more lift.

David
The New Hemi Guy