Older Richmond 5-Speed in My 1969 Firebird

[GregWeld]

Originally Posted by Ron Fox

How do you post a poll?

Thanks.

Follow the instructions.


https://lateral-g.net/forums/faq....b_poll_explain

[Mkelcy]

Originally Posted by GregWeld

I don't know how or why you'd say that. A poll on this website would give you a broad array of some very knowledgeable people - who've been there and done that.

For my part I prefer hard data and information to random expressions of opinion. Although there are people here with great experience, a poll isn't going to show who's voting. So all you get is numbers.

It's been my observation that people tend to recommend what they've purchased themselves, even if it's still sitting in the box because their car isn't done yet. That's a recommendation that's pretty worthless to me. You and I have said the Richmond is notchy, that Tremecs shift smoother, and I gave a comparison of the the gear ratios for the two. A request for input comparing the shifting of the two might be useful; a poll - not so much.

[GregWeld]

Originally Posted by Mkelcy

For my part I prefer hard data and information to random expressions of opinion. Although there are people here with great experience, a poll isn't going to show who's voting. So all you get is numbers.

It's been my observation that people tend to recommend what they've purchased themselves, even if it's still sitting in the box because their car isn't done yet. That's a recommendation that's pretty worthless to me. You and I have said the Richmond is notchy, that Tremecs shift smoother, and I gave a comparison of the the gear ratios for the two. A request for input comparing the shifting of the two might be useful; a poll - not so much.

Good point.

I was thinking though - that given the amount of OVERWHELMING choices that a poll would show - might convince him that MOST people are not looking to install a clunky old skool Richmond.

[Ron Fox]

Thanks Mike and Greg. This is what this site is all about.

Please keep the information coming because I am trying to soak up all the car information I can.

Please talk more about the cause and solution of the bogging down issue with high hp.

Thanks.

[Mkelcy]

Originally Posted by Ron Fox

Thanks Mike and Greg. This is what this site is all about.

Please keep the information coming because I am trying to soak up all the car information I can.

Please talk more about the cause and solution of the bogging down issue with high hp.

Thanks.

What engine are you putting in the car, what heads, how big are the intake runners, how big a cam, what induction system and what transmission and rear gear are you going for? My guess is you don't need to worry about a bog off idle, but some info on your build might help.

[camcojb]

I have owned a couple of Richmond 5 speeds, and driven several more. I would never buy one again when there's the TKO and T56's out there that are MUCH nicer shifting (my opinion) and give you overdrive. I also think $1400 is high for that trans.

My two cents.

Jody

[Ron Fox]

Originally Posted by Mkelcy

What engine are you putting in the car, what heads, how big are the intake runners, how big a cam, what induction system and what transmission and rear gear are you going for? My guess is you don't need to worry about a bog off idle, but some info on your build might help.

I am still waiting on metal work to begin and the engine decision (among other things) has not been make just yet. I want a built 455 and my plan is to have Butler Performance in on the build. So when the engine time comes I will get with Butler and others to see what is the best choice for me. (which will be another thread in the future).

But it sounds like most everyone in here so far does not think Richmond is the way to go. Please keep the information coming on the experiences with Richmond and other transmission. Also please give all the benefits of the TKO's, etc.

Thanks.

[Ron Fox]

Originally Posted by camcojb

I have owned a couple of Richmond 5 speeds, and driven several more. I would never buy one again when there's the TKO and T56's out there that are MUCH nicer shifting (my opinion) and give you overdrive. I also think $1400 is high for that trans.

My two cents.

Jody

Please give me your pro's and con's on your TKO.

Thanks.

[camcojb]

Originally Posted by Ron Fox

Please give me your pro's and con's on your TKO.

Thanks.

The TKO and T56 are stronger, smoother shifting, and both give you an overdrive gear (T56 has two). Really no comparison. When Doug Nash (now Richmond) came out with the 5 speed it's main benefit was less rpm drop between gears, and with the lower first gear ratio you could run a taller rear gear and lower your cruising rpms as compared to the factory Muncies.

But they just don't shift all that well, and since they do not have overdrive the TKO's and T56's are a much better alternative.

Jody

[Mkelcy]

Originally Posted by Ron Fox

Please keep the information coming on the experiences with Richmond and other transmission. Also please give all the benefits of the TKO's, etc.

Thanks.

You've gotten three responses from people who have driven both transmissions. All three thought the Tremec shifted much nicer than the Richmond. You've had the gearing explained and an example of the resulting rpm range given.

Here's where (I think) it gets to be you who needs to do some of the work if you really want an explanation of "all the benefits of the TKO's, etc." A simple search will get you lots of information.

That said, I'm surprised you still need further explanation given the the Richmond is 0 for 3 based on personal experience.