In <3066D0F7@p01.uci.com>, Palmer, Lew (UCI) wrote:
>I hate to break it to you, but the standard ratio TD diff. is 5.125:1. Even
>worse than you suspected.
>
>Nonetheless, I've been running happily of this ratio for almost 15 years
>with no real adverse effects. I admit it revs more than I would like, but it
>does make for quick starts. I've often said that I think I could climb trees
>with that car.
Even with the 54 hp engine, one can squeak the tyres in third gear.
But the downside is, as commented upon, the feeling that the clutch
will disintegrate and take out one's kneecaps when at freeway (well,
highway) speeds.
>Meanwhile, I run about 4250 RPM at 60 MPH. I used to run 4250 at 55 MPH, but
>changing to radials bumped me up to 60.
Which brings to mind the following question--do you _really_ believe
that speedometer? I get the feeling that mine was set up for 19"
wheels, since ti reads about 60 when I am doing 45. I have herad
other TD owners comment similarly and have just assumed that the
speedo is stiff-upper-lip optimistic. Can they be made to read
correctly (or even close)?
I regularly drive my TD at 55-60 (original rear end), at least judging
from the speed of the other traffic. The tach reads in the
neighborhood of 4400 rpm. The engine screams and rattles (yes, it's
the rockers) but has done so for 20 years.
A. B. Bonds
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