Saginaw 3 speed Transmission - Reasonably Possible to change 1st Gear Ratio?

[RichardJ]

Even with the 2.85 1st gear, the 3.08:1 rear gear is too tall for a truck with a 250 and manual trans.
It'll cruise all day, but hard to get rolling and the smallest hills would be a challenge with not much hauling capacity.

[72SB]

Yes which is why the 6 cly typically came with 3:73 diff. That with the lower 1st gear, and 2nd, gear of the 3 speed got it going pretty good.

I think the I6 3 speed behind a V8 would be fun and work well with 3:08

I have thought about doing 3:08's in my I6 but really like the acceleration I get now with the 3:73's. The cost for me to switch to 3:08 though reguire a new 3 series carrier so that with gears, master install kit and install labor gets past $1500. I will keep my eye out for a used GV unit for a 3 speed

[special-K]

Originally Posted by Yamariv

I was thinking of upgrading to a 4speed originally but after a bit of research it seemed like there was no point to go to a 4 speed because guys were saying the 1st gear was useless for daily driving. So you're saying then that second gear in the 4 speeds makes the difference?

You're definitely right about the 3 speeds being wonky on some turns! Lol. I don't mind mine, its kinda fun to drive but having a better 1st gear would be ideal

Sorry, I meant to say Saginaw, which is a car transmission. Those can be had for a reasonable price. and are a direct replacement. High performance guys prefer the Muncies and Borg Warners and their price reflects that