rschultz999

I'm restoring my '82 with an Iron Duke and 4-Speed Saginaw. The problem is that the shifter is pretty much worn out and I can't find a replacement.

First question is: Does anyone know where I can find a replacement Saginaw shifter?

Another option (maybe): I have a T5 on the shelf with hydraulic clutch set-up; think it was from an '88 V8 Firebird. Will this mate up to the Duke without major modification or is it just a silly idea?

Any insight is appreciated!

jmd

iTrader: (4)

Bolts right up, but the ratios would be miserable to drive without a major rear gear change. Even then, it's not what you want with a smaller displacement engine in a 3300lb car.

Further insight:
https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/tran...n-duke-t4.html

rschultz999

Thanks jmd, that's what I thought I was understanding by the other posts I read. I've built plenty of engines and am pretty good at body work, but I have to admit that I really don't know much about transmissions & gearing.

Are there any Hurst (or other brands) shifters that would work with the 3rd Gen & Saginaw? I haven't been able to find anything specifically listed for the '82. How about other tranny choices?

rschultz999

So I found a Hurst Shifter (3917960) for $333. Any ideas if it will work with the stock rods or do I have to buy the Install Kit as well?

Or how about a T4/T5 from a V6 car?

jmd

iTrader: (4)

I don't know on the hurst.

To do the V6 T5, you have to dance around clutch disc spline, and trans. to bellhousing bolt pattern. I can go into detail later. Yes, those ratios would be a lot more friendly for the 2.5L than the V8 ratios.

But, is it your actual goal to keep it 2.5L ?

rschultz999

Yes, I want to keep the 2.5 - It was my first car, my parents bought it for me to drive while Dad & I were building my Chevy 4x4.

I have a 350 built, WC-T5 trans, and everything else I needed but then had a change of heart. Its kind of an oddball and I decided to keep it as stock as possible. Just never was crazy about the gearing with Saginaw 4speed.

InfinityShade

Good man. I have an 84 2.5 i daily. love the little duke. I suggest you keep in mind that the duke produces most of its power at 3k rpm but only has 10lbs less torque than the v6 at 2.8k rpm. Here is a rebuild for 130hp if you are interested. (S10 forum has all the 2.5l info) http://www.s10forum.com/forum/f104/r...y-duke-637746/ at 130 hp your 5 speed will do just fine and you most likely wont have to change your rear (which sould be a 3.73?) unles you desire posi. Id suggest sticking with the four speed if you dont want to do the rebuild. (Personally id keep the four speed and rebuild it along with the engine. It complements the rpm ranges the duke runs in.) Post us a few pics and welcome to the 151. If you have questions about the iron duke let me know. Its a bit different to say the least.

cosmick

Actually, the less powerful the engine, the more it wants a close-ratio transmission with more gears to choose from. a NWC T5 from a V8, with the 2.95:1 first, and the 0.73:1 fifth, would be about ideal, with a 4.10:1 axle ratio.
I recently had a 2.5L with 4 speed ( Isuzu ) manual in my '87 S-10 ( now getting a 4.8L LSx V8 ) it had a 3.42:1 axle, no OD, 205/70R14s, and regularly averaged 28 MPG. I eventually managed 36 MPG, before trying a 3.08:1 axle, since first gear was too low with the 3.42s. The 3.08s didn't get me to 40 MPG as I had hoped, but they were just about right.
4.10 x 0.73 = 2.99 = close enough.
I would recommend trying this.

InfinityShade

I have been told the 4.10 rear would do well with a t5. Although I wonder what youd suggest for the four speed?

cosmick

With tires in the 25.5"-26" range, such as these cars came with when new, the iron duke likes the 3.08:1 gear for cruising without lugging, and good MPG.
If you want more rear gear for better acceleration, I'd suggest keeping it able to pull at least 30 MPH in first before it runs out of breath. I'd say gear it for cruise, let first be whatever it will.
These cars look more aero than my S-10, but my S-10 was lowered with an airdam and a tonneau, and the S-10 is much narrower. You might try a 2.93:1 gear, they do exist, but it may not be worth it.

InfinityShade

I dont think i have the hp to turn a 2.93 at 1:1. That sounds more like a 3 speed trans setup? First is 25 mph top but it still needs a little rev. Ill have to bump my hp up a bit more before i decide my gearing options.