From: speednut@csource.oz.au (mark jose)
Newsgroups: rec.autos
Subject: Shifter Kits
Date: Sun, 26 Jul 92 15:47:33 +1000
Reply-To: speednut@csource.oz.au
Organization: Unique Computing Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Australia

Original Message From: hennie@nuustak.csir.co.za (Hennie Rautenbach)
Subject: Info wanted on "Shifter Kits".
 
 
> I'm busy restoring a 1972 Chevrolet SS. I think it was originally produced
> in Australia as the Holden Monaro GTS. Its a 2 door coupe sporting a Chevy
> 350 Mill with a 2 speed Powerglide transmission. Only about 1500 of these
> were produced locally so they're fairly difficult to come by.
 
Is that the HQ???
 
> I want to beef the engine up a little and wonder if anyone can supply me
> with the following information:
>
> 1. What would the advantages be if I replace the 2 spd Powerglide trans.
>   with a 3 spd. Turbo Hydramatic 350.
 
To my knowledge the TH-350 is a good transmission to have behind a MILD 350.
If you want a HOT 350 then the TH-400 is the only way to go. But of course,
this option costs more.
 
 
> 2. I see lots of adds for shifter kits. What exactly does a shifter kit do ?
 
It improves the shifting ability of the transmission. Depending on the "grade"
of shift kit, you can get anything from a mild improvement in upshift to an
almost manual automatic gearbox. (I know it is a contadiction in terms but
honestly some shift kits really make the transmission kick in - and so it is
almost like driving a manual without a clutch!)
 
IMHO, get the shift kit but do not install it yourself unless you are fully
conversant with the "guts" of the transmission. Better to pay out a bit more
money then ruin a perfectly good transmission because of improper fitting.
 
> 3. Would a 600 cfm Holley provide sufficient gas ?
 
I would go for a 650 double pumper (minimum) but then it depends on your
heads and whether this amount of flow is going to cause you to dump twice as
much fuel into the heads as is required.
 
If your heads have been flow tested then just go to your Holley dealer and get
a carby that meets the results. Simple.
 
> 4. What is the best Intake Manifold to use with this type engine ?
 
Maybe your best bet is an Edelbrock Performer. These retail here at about
$600 (that's a guess but it should be around that). I think from memory that
this is good for around 300+ horsepower.
 
> 5. What Camshaft should fit ? I don't want to race or drag the car.
 
A Competition Cams 252 Cam (and associated lifters). This is a good mid range
performer (2500 - 4500) and so would suit cruising.
 
> I havent fitted any fancy headers due to space problems under the hood. The
> cylinder heads have been gas-flowed though.
 
Maybe you should look at getting some custom made.
 
Cheers.
 
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proud owner of a 1972 Ford XA Fairmont - 167 MPH of rev-limited thrills!!
The World's Fastest Four Door Production Sedan!   ** Carn the Hawks **
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.........................................................
mark jose
speednut@csource.oz.au  Unique Computing Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Australia
The opinions expressed above are that of the author only.