i will be buying an LS1. i will build this LS1 up quite a bit. i will be changing cam, heads, rockers, rods, crank, etc. i am trying to decide if i should get a manual or auto. i know the clutch was redone sometime, but i don't know which year. is there any particular years i should stay away from in the manual or auto? any years that had more problems than others? do you think the manual or auto would be better for this built or does it not matter? also, with the old style clutch, can it be replaced with the new style or it that too much work?
any suggestions would be great

 

The 4L60E won't stand up to power. If you buy an auto, you'd probably end up swapping in a turbo 400 (with a gear vendors OD if you plan on streeting it.)

The T56 is stronger. 01-02s have a better clutch setup if I remember correctly. The stock clutch itself won't last under power, though. Most upgrade to a Spec Stage 3 or any other stronger brand.

 

98 and up 6 spds have a reverse cluth setup but both clutch setups are strong personally i think a m6 would be better than an auto but both can be built with enough money to do exactly what u want.

 

so is it just the clutch that is weak or something else?

also, how difficult is it to swap in a 6-speed with an auto car?

 

I would never want to do a swap. Just get an automatic, they are more commen anyway. I would never want to try to install a new pedal. Maybe that is just me though.

I would get the auto if you are to only drag the car. Auto's are more consistent than the manuals, but you will have to upgrade the tranny. With some 3.73's and a good TQ you should keep up with a 6-speed. If you like to have fun, the 6-speed will always be more fun in my eyes. Shifting for yourself will never get old in the street. Except on the highway

 

If I remember right the 01-02 got an upgraded slave cylinder and the Z06 clutch to fix the problems.

 

I wouldn't waste the time or the money for the swap. Just get which ever you like from the get go. Wheter it be A4 or M6.

Even your stock 4L60E will be able to handle quite a bit of hp. Add a higher stall and you'll get nice number on the track. Consistency is also a nice plus, IMO.

You can also get well-built 4L60E's that can handle all the power you need. PLUS you won't have to worry about frying your clutch every now and then, either.

Figure replacing your clutch every now and then during the years, and your professionally-built A4 will most likely come out ahead.

Not trying to start a flame war between A4's and M6's. That's just the way I see it.

TS

 

you want an LS1? I got one.. 99 SS with only 12k miles!!! perfect for you... let me know $18.5

 

sorry sandman, i won't be spending that much.

i know it is up to me. i really like driving the 6-speed i have now. also, the 6-speeds are a tad quicker. do any of you run the mcleod street twin? i know this is not cheap, but it is probally cheaper than the new auto tranny. how long can one of these clutches usually last. this car won't be drove daily and won't be a straight drag car. yes, i will be getting on it, but not every 5 minutes.

i don't know why but it seems like i am leaning towards the manual because that is what i have now. they seem to be pretty tough to find though, so i may just get an auto if i find a nice z or ss with a good price tag.

 

Depends what you mean by that. Auto's are faster/quicker from the stop, manuals from the roll.

So, that is always debatable.

TS

 

oh yeah, i would totally agree. the auto's have more right from the start. however, that is not important for me. i want the most midrange to top end power. i think you are just leaning toward the auto and i am just leaning towards the manual. i would like an m6 for the fun, but i like not having to deal with the clutch with the auto. decisions decisions

 

Pretty much so.

There's no denying the fun factor you can have with the manual, but on a daily driver, like mine, there's nothing better than having an automatic transmission. Again, IMO.

You are the one making the decision and getting the one which you don't ultimately like is not good. Considering the amount of money you will be spending just on the purchase.

if you, in the back of your mind, absolutely want a manual, definetely wait for the manual. One will come around sooner or later. Patience is a virtue, you know.

TS

 

I have your new car - just take a look at my sig.

 

I had the same prediciment, I was torn. I waited for the best deal and ended up with a 2001 a4, I bought it last August for $14,000, it only had 7500 miles on it. It now has 19,500 on it, I drive the $hit out of it, it is the funnest car I have ever owned. Trust me, either way you will be happy. It is dead nuts consistant at the track, and kills Mustang Gt's. Nothing beats the sound of an LS1 at full song! Happy hunting.

 

yeah i am stuck right in the middle on which one to buy. i will probally get whatever i find with the best price in the best condition.

kevin, it sounds like a great car, but you will want more for than than i want to pay. i am not going all out on the car itself. i want a car in great condition with a good price. i was mainly looking at 98's and 99's because i can find those z28's and ss's for under 12K. i mainly just want the LS1 engine. i have an LT1 right now but i figured i would have to put less cash into the LS1 to be faster, so i am selling mine and getting an LS1.