Bob's Track Friends Chat

[OldAIMGuy]

Hi Bob, Re: 5th Gear Change........

The over drive gear can be changed. There's a relation to the ratio of 1st gear, and I think it's inverse if I remember right.

In my old Jag race car I ran a 0.90 OD 5th in the T-5 box. In my street Jag we had the trans built with a 0.75 OD. With 3.55:1 rear gears, that comes to just under 30mph/1000 rpm (2150 rpm @ 60mph in 5th).

If you do change out 5th gear, there's a very nice bearing retainer that can be installed to make the OD gear and shaft much more durable. So, if you're going to make it more usable, it makes sense to make it stronger as well. I have the web address for those parts at the office if you decide to look into it.

Sounds like you had some fun. I think you'll enjoy R.A. also. It's like a big country road.

While you're reviewing the R.A. video, you should take time to watch La Carrera Panamericana. Maybe you'll catch a glimpse of our XK140 Jag somewhere in there. Of all the racing I've done, that single even was the most challenging, interesting and educational.

Best regards, Tom