I have the opportunity to buy an '85 Trans Am that was built for drag racing. I don't have tons of details about the car, but I know the car has a 350 all motor, that he claims is about 575 hp. A TH400 tranny and a Moser 9" with 4.86 and a spool. He claims the car runs 6.60's in the 1/8th. I am not looking for a drag car...but a bad *** street car. If I changed the 4.86's to something like a 3.73 and an LSD instead of a spool...would the car be manageable to drive on the street? I know...this isn't a lot of info to go on, but what other possible trouble areas would need to be addressed? There is a good aluminum radiator with a 16" fan, so I don't think overheating would be an issue...what do you think?

Thanks!

edit: I tried uploading pics but it wouldn't work...I'll keep trying so you can see it!

 

it would def. be fun! lol!

 

probably not so fun, the thing probably won't run on pump gas with octane booster, and the rpm range is probably so high that a 3.73:1 would feel like a 2.73:1 behind an LS6. Do a compression test, find out the cranking compression, and ask the guy what rpm he shifts at.

 

oh, by the way, it may be that he can get by on pump gas with octane booster, but using the taller gears you propose would increase the load on the engine, and that could induce detonation. Another reason to do the compression test.

 

Thanks man! I sent him your questions and I will let you know what he says!

 

Ok...he said he runs 110 racing fuel, 38 degrees total timingm 12.5 - 13 to 1 compression...the car also has a 4,000 stall converter. He didn't have compression numbers.

Thanks!

 

You'd need to make so many changes, I'd pass and look for something else.

 

Yeah, you are right. I spoke to him on the phone...13 to 1 compression?!?! I would have to mess with the tuning so much it isn't worth it. Thanks for your input guys...the search goes on!