Sprite/Midget 5-Speed Kit When the Datsun 5 speed overdrive transmission is to be used in competition, we suggest the car be fitted with one step lower ratio differential than was used with the non-overdrive transmission. For example, it if previously used a 4.22:1 ratio, change to the 4.55:1 ratio. This allows use of the top three gears only on most race tracks. This is advantageous because these are the closest ratios in the Datsun transmission. Column #1 under each transmission is the gear ratio. Column #2 under each is the percent RPM reduction upon upshift to that gear.
If the 5-speed race car is ever used in competition where rules require only a four speed, it can be converted easily. Shifting this transmission into low gear slides the shift rail into a pocket at the right, top of the extension case. Drill and tap this pocket from the rear end. Run in a screw, with a jam nut, that will block travel into low gear. To convert back to five speeds, back out the screw enough to allow engagement of low gear, and retighten the jam nut. Changing between 4 and 5 speeds can be done with the transmission in the car. The kit is compatible with cars using the Tilton racing clutch. The part number of the Tilton clutch disc required is in the instructions. Order the conversion kit, noting to delete the clutch disc, for a credit of $55.00. For those wishing to have a full-race close ratio transmission, Datsun made such a box in both 4 and 5 speed versions. The Rivergate 5 speed conversion kit can be used to install these transmissions into cars using the Series A engines. |
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