[Torr]

Newbie here. I have been reading for a while, but havent really found what I was looking for as far as info goes, probably my fault but would appreciate some input. I havent purchased a S197 yet and am contemplating which tranny to go with. I know once I do I will probably get a blower (either KB or Whipple most likely) and different rims to go with it. What are the basic limits that both trannies can handle as far as power mods go? There are no road race tracks close and only a 1/8 mile strip which I would like to take it on every once in a while. I am quite positive I will want to continue making mods as I have a need for speed, but are the trannies the weak link? I am leaning towards the auto due to convenience and consistency. I do work at a Ford store, in fact the 2nd Ford dealership ever, and suspect I will be leaning towards the whipple due to price discount. Until I can purchase my new ride, I will have to get my kicks from my dad's 69 Mach 1 with 351c and a 4 spd. Any thoughts will be greatly appreciated!

 

[1RápidoZorro]

5-speed for sure... I would say automatic if you were planning on bracket racing every weekend or something like that. But Ive ehard of these trannies holding up quite well. You will need to do some bottom end work before any of the drivetrain.

 

[Torr]

Thanks, lets just say that I have a forged assembly in the plans, is one going to last longer or once I start worrying about the bottom end , do I start worrying about the drive line too?

 

[1RápidoZorro]

Dont quote me but Im prety sure I have read articles about S197s in the mid 700s on the stock tranny... If your in the mid 700s you have alot to worry about before the tranny...

 

[IronStomach]

Dont quote me but Im prety sure I have read articles about S197s in the mid 700s on the stock tranny... If your in the mid 700s you have alot to worry about before the tranny...

And when you get to that point, it's 6-speed upgrade time?

 

[jat]

good luck launch with 700 hp and slicks.. u will need a new rear within a couple of launches...

there are issues with high rpm shifts at 500rwhp with the new clutches in the manuals....

the auto has gone pretty far... i believe there was a post on another forum with one showing it went a 10.82 in 1/4 and even lower i think it was jdms car. but with a built rear.

eitherway if ur going to be at the drag strip everyweekend and want consistency nothing beats the auto.

 

[Torr]

eitherway if ur going to be at the drag strip everyweekend and want consistency nothing beats the auto.

Thats the only way I will probably be able to exploit the mods properly. Too many chances to go to jail otherwise.

 

[jat]

Thats the only way I will probably be able to exploit the mods properly. Too many chances to go to jail otherwise.

so then u answered ur own question...

 

[Torr]

so then u answered ur own question...

my question was what are the limits of both trannies, not which one to go with. Also, I agree about consistency with the auto, but will it hold up to the same amount of mods?

 

[forensicsteve]

mid 700s on the stock tranny

Lots of trannies fail below 500 rwhp. The guy that bought my Procharger was doing great at the track but I found out from my mechanic (who worked on his car) that he blew the stock auto tranny in 2nd gear at about 440 rear wheel. Maybe he was just unlucky?????

 

[06VistaGT]

+1^ most i've heard go out after around 450rwhp, especially after lots of track use. The new autos are pretty decent.

 

[Torr]

Lots of trannies fail below 500 rwhp. The guy that bought my Procharger was doing great at the track but I found out from my mechanic (who worked on his car) that he blew the stock auto tranny in 2nd gear at about 440 rear wheel. Maybe he was just unlucky?????

thanks, cant wait to read more about yours after the dyno.

 

[Torr]

+1^ most i've heard go out after around 450rwhp, especially after lots of track use. The new autos are pretty decent.

That doesnt sound like very many mods beyond a basic blower. I have seen TCI advertise superstreetfighter good up to 650 hp. Doesnt sound like they can truly hold up to a lot of abuse.