With an A-4, I don't believe going above 3.73 would be wise. If you go with gears, advise that you go with OEM brand, because richmonds, etc. although they might be a tad stronger, have a reputation of being noisy. Would also include Raytec solid shims rather than using the std crush sleeves to ensure that the gears stay put and wear longer.

Going from, e.g. 2.23 to a 3.73 ratio would result in a 68% increase in torque (3.73 divided by 2.23=1.68 or 68% increase). I'd shoot for something between 3.42 and 3.73. The 3.42 should provide over 50% if you have 2.23s now, and there should be a lot of 3.42s sitting around in member's garages having upgraded their M-6s to 4.10s.

 

hmm, thats a big increase, bigger than i thought at least. ive never actually installed them, is the process complicated?

 

I don't believe it is "complicated" however there is a spefic procedure that should be followed to get the intended results. I.e, it wouldn't
be a bad idea to get some help from someone with experience.

You can find lots of articles on the hows and whys, but there is nothing better than knowhow. I had mine done by an experienced mechanic----btw remember that there is a definite difference between a qualified, concientious and experienced mechanic and an unqualified, sloppy, careless, albeit experienced mechanic------always do your homework when it come to deciding with whom to trust your toys with.

There are many horror stories about those, including moi, who listened to heresay about the virtues of a particular mechanic instead of doing some homework regarding the actual reputation of the mechanic. The owner, and the shop in general, may have a stellar reputation, but the mechanic they put on your case may be the worst around. Always make sure WHO will be doing the actual work and responible for the job.

 

If you do decide to keep your 4L60E you can do a couple simple things to make it a little stronger. TCI sells a boost valve for around $30 this will boost your line pressure and help your clutches grab a litlle "tighter" which means no slipping, also shifts will feel a little crisper. Also if you decide to do a stall converter get a tranny cooler this will obviously help the longevity of your trans as it will keep it from overheating

 

if you have never set up a rearend, do not attempt to install gears on your own. leave that to an experienced tech. ive done 2-3 dozen and i still have one of the old guys double check the preload and wear pattern before i let them go, even though i know they are good just to be sure i get a second opinion.

as for what bubba said, i dont know of any camaro with a 2.23 gear. the auto had 2.73 and 3.23 and the M6 had 3.42

the easiest way to tell on early LT1's is to look at the gear selector if you can drop it all the way 1st gear, its a 3.23 car. if the selector stops at 2nd its a 2.73 car. (this is only 93-95 specific, 96 and later all went to 1st)

and as for deciding on a gear, best bet is 3.73 for an A4 and 4.10 for an M6

 

Yes indeed, I mispoke regarding the 2.23 ratio---going from 2.73 to 3.73 would get you a 37% increase in torque. Still not too shabby if you can get it to the ground. In re brand of RRs, PRs, Springs, etc. I'm sure you will get some good recommendations from the board here.

The main thing is not to go cheapie on the valve train. Use good parts and you won't regret it.