What are the merits of a short ratio box on a track?, Will it make significant reductions in lap times? Options

[nine14cats]

I've got a stock ratio G50 box in my track car. Currently I'm using 2nd through 4th at Infineon, Buttonwillow, Laguna Seca and Thunderhill. I haven't been to Reno-Fernley yet but will be there later this year.

Would it make a significant improvement in lap times to shorten the gearing between the 2nd through 5th gearsets and take advantage of the 5th I'm not using? I wouldn't do it during the season, as I'm still getting used to the car and my RPM' (and speeds) entering turns should go up as I gain more experience in the car. But I just don't see getting into 5th pretty much at all on any of the tracks....

Thanks,

Bill P.

[DanT]

Bill, I agree with most of what has been said so far. Your car has so much torque I am not sure you are going to gain anything except shifting more.

Have you checked the prices on G50 gears and what not? Can you say Big $$$$?

My advice and I am sure Rich Walton would agree....learn to drive what you currently have to its fullest and then when you get there, it will be time to make modifications.

You have at least 8-9 seconds at TH CCW before you have gotten to the full potential of you car as it currently sits.

I should have taken the time to ride with you last weekend, but got busy with my mosquito abatement issues (IMG:style_emoticons/default/biggrin.gif)

i am sure I could have gotten you down to a 2:04 or :05 (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif) (IMG:style_emoticons/default/poke.gif)