of course low end torque at the wheel is affected... that is the trade off. once rolling though you just hold the gears a little longer and the effect is not seen again til you are in top gear.

on the starting in second, yes there is a way to make it always start in first. you used to be able to order a kit for it i believe.

if you are fond of jack rabbit starts or want to take your car to the drag strip chang ing gears is not for you. if you want to save fuel it is about the most cost effective thing to do. and unlike some other things it works.

tom w

i have changed the following: 52 pontiac ambulance, 84 suburban, 85 suburban, 83 240d with 300 non turbo d, 81 280e.

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[SIGPIC] Diesel loving autocrossing grandpa Architect. 08 Dodge 3/4 ton with Cummins & six speed; I have had about 35 benzes. I have a 39 Studebaker Coupe Express pickup in which I have had installed a 617 turbo and a five speed manual.[SIGPIC]

..I also have a 427 Cobra replica with an aluminum chassis.