Originally Posted by downwardspiral
I've been using 1st less and less, I could live without but I'm sure by clutch and wallet are happy about it. I only really use it from an uphill stop, in stop and go traffic and for snappy launches. 2nd does a better job if I'm starting up into a turn, starting from a roll or on a level/ downhill road.
I've found that I get better results when I don't downshift unless I'm going to bog the engine (in 6th 50-70). The car seems to have more passing power when I stay in gear (ie 3rd gear around 35mph) and let the gear see the whole RPM range, theres a little more area under the acceleration curve.
I'm considering using an SRT rear with its numerically lower gear ratio, I think I would be happier with it.
You are quite right. Third is the awesome gear in the Crossie. One can do the entire Dragon in third very well.
I also find in stop and go rubberbanding traffic that the engine handles the lugging OK and the top end (about 85 MPH comfortably) is more than enough for that situation. One can keep the left foot at rest.
The biggest problem I have is that after so many years of driving a four speed, as I leave heavy traffic it is not uncommon for me to notice some 20 miles down the road, that I haven't put it in 6th. The torque curve in this engine is so level, one does not feel it drop off at the higher RPMS.
Cool.