Alright, I'm about to buy rear end gears and I know very little about them besides ratio numbers and size. I plan on having a shop install them, but I my to know they are quality parts, and I don't want to pay the shops parts markup cost. I have a 95 trans am with I believe is a 3.23 rear end. I'm upgrading to 3.73 because I'm an A4.

I just need you guys to check over my list here and tell me if I should change something.

I was going to go with Richmond 3.73 gears:
http://store.summitracing.com/partde...=KeywordSearch
This installation kit by Richmond:
http://store.summitracing.com/partde...41&view=32&N=0

What about the Ratech installation kit?
http://store.summitracing.com/partde...=KeywordSearch

and what the heck is "Solid Pinion Bearing Spacer"? and do I need one?
http://store.summitracing.com/partde...=KeywordSearch

 

I've pretty much heard that Richmonds are more than likely going to whine. I've always heard the quietest gears are Motives. If i remember correctly the soild pinion spacer is really only needed for 6 spd cars as they shock the drivetrain when you drop the clutch.

 

Im running strange gears, with a ratech kit, NO WHINE


its all about the install

 

I have motive 3.73, and they are whining. At first it was really quiet, but the more I raced it, the louder the whining gets. Especially after the stall.

 

When I had my Mustang (yea, I know...hey Ford is doing it now, not back then), anyhow, I had 4.10's and they whined (not loud though). I think it depends on the install how much of a whine there is, but there will always be a whine.
I've heard from some even with 6 sp that 4.10's require the driver to shift way to soon when racing. 3.73's are better for both A4 and 6sp. With overdrive everyone can get away with 4.10's but it maybe too aggressive.
I think whine is part of gear changes.
I just heard gas (in CA) is expected to rise to $4 a gallon. HOLY... Time for bike.
Daniel