What is the optimal level on the stick? I've got mine midway in the maximum operating level area. According to the stick if you're not in the max level area a pint is needed.

The other day I was just at the first hatch mark for max level so I added a pint and that put it in the middle.



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The 3.4 DOHC engines came with the 3.43 gearing too.
Whenever I get around to my trans I'm going with that ratio and a stock 3.4 DOHC stall converter.

I would stick with the 3.73s if you were gonna put a crazy cam in and kill your low end along with some midrange. But you have a mild cam and a decent, broad, powerband to make use of. You don't want to zip right past that.
I was trying to sell you and Doug the 3.43s before. Maybe you'll fall for it his time?

I think Rogue said somewhere he always runs with an extra quart added. :? :?:

edit: it was just a half quart. http://www.bonnevilleclub.com/forum/...on+fluid+quart

i though when the trans its at its "max temp" its suppose to be at the top of the hatch area :?

Anywhere in the crosshatch zone is the recommended safe zone. Always measured HOT and level of course.

And measured with the vehicle running in Park or Neutral so there is fluid being circulated. You would be amazed at how high the fluid was in my tranny once I figured out what I was looking for... 3-4 inches above the cross-hatched area on the dipstick

So now you all have me reconsidering on the 3.73 gears. I had just made a final decision with Doug on the phone today, and then I come on here and read this stuff! You're making it pretty damn hard for me to make up my mind. Honestly there has been nothing wrong with the 3.73 ratio in daily driving, aside from the 17-18mpg around town and 25mpg on the interstate. I enjoy the quick acceleration, and it gives me opportunity to swap in a really big cam that makes peak power up higher.

However, I can totally understand the argument for 3.33/3.43s. They are a better "middle-of-the-road" ratio and would suit my current setup beautifully, especially on street tires (not enough grip with the 3.73 ratio). I'll think about it more and give Doug a call tomorrow.

It seems as though the popular opinion is to go with the 3.33/3.43 setup. Any other opinions and/or reasons for choosing a particular ratio?

Maybe just do the 3.43 setup and if your not satisfied just swap in the 3.33 diff to make a 3.73 FDR?
Swapping the diff wouldn't be too involved and your wouldn't have to crack the sidepan like you would if you wanted to change the ratio on a 3.33 trans.

Thought about that, but I made a final decision for the 3.73 ratio today. I've enjoyed having it, and it will allow me to move to a bigger cam whenever I get the itch.

We're also looking at a 3500 stall converter

Get some spring blockers and slicks and say helllo low 60 foots.