[mc73nova]

Originally Posted by Mark42

Got the 98 Firebird back from the shop. The Eaton TrueTrac and 3.73 gears were installed. Now there is a 500 mile break in period and its driving me nuts I can't hammer the gas! But I did notice that the car went right up my snow covered driveway where it couldn't do it two days ago with the old open rear.

There is a little noise from the rear when "feathering" the throttle, but under load and steady cruise its quiet. The shop said it should get quieter as it breaks in, but it won't be as quiet as if he installed OEM GM gears.

Also, as is to be expected, the speedo is off by quite a bit. Especially seeing as the car went from 3.08 to 3.73. That will get fixed as soon as I can hook up with SSP.

Right from the start I can feel the difference the 3.73's make, even with modest acceleration.

The best part was the shop (Steves Trans Repair, Stillwater, NJ) quoted me $300 as their standard labor charge for a gear change, pending any problems or extra parts. Well, after installing the parts the owner took the car for a drive, then put it back on the lift and took it apart to change the pinion depth to get a better wear pattern and reduce noise. I was seeing $$$ flashing before my eyes as he worked on it all day. In the end, the labor bill came to $380.00. Can't complain. A real Christmas gift!

I noticed a poster of the Eaton TrueTrac on the wall. Steve thinks their the best posi for street cars, so I was thrilled to hear that! He has two 1/4 mile cars in the bays being built for clients. I'll let this guy work on my car any day.

Followed the break in instructions for the Ring & Pinion gears... Drive for 20 minutes to heat it all up, then park and let it get stone cold before use again. Right now its in the "stone cold" stage.

Can't wait until the speedo is adjusted and gears broken in!

Glad to hear it worked out for you. I told you, Steve is a great guy and he is extremely reasonable.