Originally Posted by Jack Shry
I have really enjoyed the log of your efforts to make this swap. Have you ever thught about a manual transmission. I drive a standard with the stock (mostly) 3.2. I know that he stock manual is lame in the 1st-2nd area, but if you didin't need to burn from a start, do you think it would take the higher torque load. I talked to the Starlight people a couple of years back, and they said that for $15K they would fit a stronger manual.
Good luck on the engine swap. Your open book reaseach will be valuable to others who have considered this swap.
Jack
1st-2nd is fine if you know how to drive a stick, also some 04 models have had problems with synchros. 2-1st gear shifts are flawless if you can double clutch and blip the throttle to get the cones and synchros up to speed. like silk baby!
there are technical upgrade to the 6 speed that can make it handle 480hp, requires some machine work. the good thing is the jeep guys use the same trans, so maybe in a few years some one will come out with a heavy duty kit.