@Sacto Mitch posted:.Just take from this that if you're planning a new build, gearing should be as important a part of the planning as the engine.
I wish somebody had needlepointed that, framed it and given it to me in 2000 or so, when I was just getting into this hobby, so I could hang it in the bathroom and look at it every morning while I was doing my business. Gearing is not "as important" as the engine, it is "more important". It's one of the things nobody discusses on all of the other forums.
Just like 95% of all carburation problems are ignition, at least 75% of all all engine deficiencies are gearing. One needs to get to a certain level of power, but there is a sweet-spot right around a 2110 making 130-140 hp. Going further with a bigger, more powerful engine results in huge outlays of money and minimal return on investment (to say nothing of the reliability sacrifice made).
Yes, a 5-speed is expensive- but nowhere near as expensive as trying to fill the holes created by the transmission with more power from the engine.
Ask me how I know.