Anyone running 4:3 in your 3rd gen?
I just did a transmision swap from auto to manual and stock gears for a 5speed manual are 4:1's so I'm looking at going to aftermarket at 4:3's for more bottom end. just curious what the Freeway is like on those gears? I'm running on 18's and I am 290 to the wheels.

Debating
4:1
4:3

your feed back would be great.

 

doesn't really make that much of a difference but rpms will be up of course. there are a few threads about the 4.33 gears and the rpms in each gear etc. a lot of cars are geared for lower end power. like my miata 4k at 80mph, 5th gear... its not bad at all.

what are u concerned about at top gear? fuel mileage?

 

4:3 gears work great. I have them in my auto . made a big difference with low end torque. you don't need aftermarket gears mazda made them stock in the RZ models in japan. have a shop install them and set the lash to factory standards. you will be very happy with the car.

Jeff

 

I put the 4.3 in my FD specifically for auto-xing. I noticed the difference but it wasn't huge but I didn't want to go with 4.77 because my car was strictly dual purpose (read wasn't the best at either).

I had 17x10 rear wheels with 275/40/17 for the street which were taller than stock so the car was noticeably slower with the big wheels vs. stock w/race tires. With the shorter gears and the bigger wheels the gearing was about the same as stock.

 

not to be nitpicky, but I am going to be nitpicky. please remember to specify gear ratios properly.

you said: 4:1, 4:3 (4:3 would be a bit tall... )
4:1 or 4.3:1

However, please dont take my post as being degrading, just a friendly reminder. Happy running!

 

GoodfellaFD3S switched to 430s to restore his bottom end and mid-range for just that reason... It makes the car feel like it's back on stock rims.... response is crisp and normal. If you're using 18's you'll be happy with the choice.

 

Monkman. You're making yourself look like an ***. I think anyone with half a brain knew what he meant when he referred to the ratio. You're not impressing anyone with intelligence.

 

thanks for all your feedback guys, looks like 4:3's is going to be the best fit for rippin around town on 18's.
Thanks again...Merry Christmas,drive safe

The Carloman

 

I went with 4.56s but went back to 4.33s in my Ford 8.8" rearend but if def. helps ALOT.