team3s            Friday, December 8 2000            Volume 01 : Number 345




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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 03:39:37 -0600
From: "Vineet Singh \(3S\)" <stealthtt@ecanfix.com>
Subject: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences

MY 92 Stealth RT/TT bought with 80k on it = BAD 1st gear synchro...
rest seems ok. BG synchroshift help overall feel, but not that
synchro.

Neighbor's 92 3000GT VR4 with 58k on it = Just got reamed about 5
months ago... Bad tranny (1st, 2nd and 5th synchro's nearly shot).
Total Stealership bill? 7000. They gave him new brake pads as a
freebie. $7000... and he PAID for it.

Friends 94 3000GT VR4 with 60k'ish miles, = Got a new tranny just
before purchase... grinding in some gears, not too many details known.

Stealth owner I met in my area with 66k miles = Just had a tranny
replaced by his "uncles shop". He happened to have an identical car to
mine, but in pearl white.

That 60,000 mile theory sounds like a ringer (again, there are
exceptions to every rule, but this is a damn obvious track record.)

Vineet 'Vinny' Singh
http://www.ecanfix.com/~doordoctor/ - Door panel blisters/bubbles?
http://manualcd.dsm.org - DSM & 3/S Service manuals on CDROM



***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2000 11:46:33 +0100
From: Roger Gerl <roger.gerl@bluewin.ch>
Subject: Re: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences

I once spoke with a rep of Mitsu here in Switzerland and he reported about
8 tranny faliures ALLOVER continental EUROPE (not UK). In fact all failures
they had started due to other problems like broken parts in the clutch and
then wrong work from the mechanic who changed the parts ! Same happend to
me as a sping in the clutch boke (!) and it had to be changed. The
installation was done bad and it slipped again after a few hundred kms.
Then I noticed that my front wheels are slipping when I gave too much gas
and we found out that the output shaft was grinded down. Mitsu then decided
to replace the whole tranny and transfer case at no cost for me (4 years
old car) and I got a Merc SL for those 3 days for free. Now M having about
70k on the car, about 40k on this tranny and zero problems. In Europe the
2nd gens have NO REPORTS and the all other porblems always occured after
bad work ! In UK they have more failures due to much grey inports from
straneg sources. BTW, only a few 3s are used on any track over Europe.....
racing is a possible cause for failures !

Roger
93'3000GT TT
www.rtec.ch


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2000 11:01:36 -0500
From: Michael Reid <mreid@magma.ca>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??

I can't find the web page now, but I've seen a page where BMW Getrag sychro
problems were documented. I beleive the author also felt that the bronze/brass
coating was an issue. Apparently these are "sulfur sensitive" and just go bad
after a while... ? Or perhaps brass and bronze should not be combined...

Anyone know if GL-5 fluids have sulfur ?

I'm 2nd owner of my 94 RT/TT and the first owner had the tranny replaced
sometime
before 40,000 miles. I've got 70,000 miles on it now but no problems yet,
other
than the very occasional crunch into 2nd from 1st. I shift slowly though.

I DO want to change to a synthetic, since the tranny shifts like mollasses
for the first 5-10 minutes at 20 below zero...


BTW, somebody mentioned that having the transfer case output shaft inspected
could be a yearly thing... Is it really that easy and thus inexpensive to
have checked ?
I could use the peace of mind (or the bad news, but the xfer case is not
too expensive).


Mike.


>I don't think any owner survey could tell you that info, not many teardowns
>done so it would be conjecture on their part. Frank at Kormex provided
>a list at one time --- synchros were NOT 1st on his list. From my limited
>experience I would say the bronze/brass coating on the cones fails. If
>the car is driven too long with bad synchros the face gears get ground up
>also thus destroying the drive gear.


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2000 17:20:44 -0000
From: "Susan ." <vr4girl@hotmail.com>
Subject: Team3S: 2nd tranny failure

You guys are great!  I'm needing info on tranny parts; I've searched through
the list archives, and there's so many issues of this, I'm hoping for some
more specific direction.  My '91 VR-4 (bought it at 70K in '97) had the 1st
tranny replaced at 50K, and now has a busted transfer case rod (34K on new
tranny).

Dealership's told me they can't replace the part, and want $8k to put whole
new tranny/transfer case unit in (no warranty). I've downloaded a stack of
files on similar issues on my yr/make/model from NHTSA, but all owner's
names are confidential, so luckily, I've found this list!

I've found a shop that will do the replacement for $4K (they've located a
used unit), which still hurts!  So, 1) I've downloaded the 'parts list' and
am in process of searching it, but don't know if I have the terminology
correct for this part, and 2)I'm in Houston, TX and would love to know of a
trusted mechanic who knows these machines, and will do this replacement
properly.

Any information would be greatly appreciated - I sure miss driving it...

Susan
vr4girl@hotmail.com

P.S. - don't race it (though I've thought about it!), no aftermarket parts,
and haven't used Redline since I've owned it!!
_____________________________________________________________________________________
Get more from the Web.  FREE MSN Explorer download : http://explorer.msn.com


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 20:25:45 -0600
From: "Brad Bedell" <bbedell@austin.rr.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Once again: Getrag bought by Dana

A Toyota dealership in Houston sponsored copying all the internal parts in
the supra transmission.  That dealer now sells to other Toyota dealers and
customers who need the parts.

Jay Marks Toyota, if I am not mistaken is the dealer who did this.

Has anyone checked into having parts produced for the 5/6 speed
transmissions?

Brad
Check out my home page: http://home.austin.rr.com/overboost/
E-Mail: bbedell@austin.rr.com ICQ#  3612682

- -----Original Message-----
From: owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st
[mailto:owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st]On Behalf Of Merritt
Sent: Wednesday, December 06, 2000 1:41 PM
To: Curt Gendron; Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st
Subject: Re: Team3S: Once again: Getrag bought by Dana


I will be much happier when I see something like this in print or on a
website, with prices and part numbers..
I don't have any problems at the moment, but I have only 50,000 more miles
to go before the 2nd gear syncro fails again.

Rich

>
>The idea of not having parts available for our Getrags, is slowly becoming
a
>thing of the past.  Kormax now sells 1-2 and 3-4 syncros.  A good friend of
>mine has also spoken to another Getrag rebuild shop, (that shal remain
>nameless for now) that was willing to sell any gears or syncros from our
>trannies.  This situation may have been slightly under the table, but I
>think the days of us not getting parts, is coming to an end.


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 20:25:44 -0600
From: "Brad Bedell" <bbedell@austin.rr.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??

From what I remember about my all-trac it had just a little loop for the
oil-cooler (short u-bend like a PS cooler)   It would be super easy to add a
cooler to it though.  That transmission actually had an oil-pump built into
it internally.

An oil-cooler might be a good idea in the 3000's.   I suppose one would have
to figure out optimum operating temps and size a cooler accordingly.

As for the All-trac tranny.  The gears separate in 3rd and 4th gear when you
put ~450hp through it.   This then cracks the case and leaves the car in a
nice flat spin :)

The internals are not nearly as large as the getrag parts either.


Brad
Check out my home page: http://home.austin.rr.com/overboost/
E-Mail: bbedell@austin.rr.com ICQ#  3612682

- -----Original Message-----
From: Geoff Mohler [mailto:gemohler@www.speedtoys.com]
Sent: Thursday, December 07, 2000 9:36 PM
To: Brad Bedell
Cc: Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st
Subject: RE: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??

Brad:

I dunno how relevant this is, but the Celica AllTrac tranny is pretty much
bulletproof, the only -major- thing I can tell from outside the tranny is
that it has as OEM, an external oil cooler for the gearbox.

I cant see it'd be difficult to do this on the VR4, nice side-access drain
plug (and fill of course)...couple fittings, a 12v fluid pump, few hoses,
and a cooler.

Thoughts?

Cant HURT.

On Thu, 7 Dec 2000, Brad Bedell wrote:

> I've been inside several transmissions...
>
> While there are some design questions out there, let us consider this:
>
> We should be thankful that the gears in these transmissions.  Mustang
> transmissions usually shatter the whole gear assemblies.
> There are several of us who have had zero transmission problems with two
> years of hard driving. (me)
>
> I know of only a few transmissions that have actually given up from abuse.
> (meaning gears break, case breaks etc).
>
> My thoughts/theory is that the steel syncro rings that are coated with
> brass-like friction material is not as wear resistant as it should be for
> the gears to mesh properly.
> Meaning there is too much inertia from the gears for the chosen material
on
> the syncro.
>
>
> Most of the transmission problems have come from parts that are designed
to
> wear out.
>
> As for redline.   MTL and MT-90 has a friction additive that actually
helps
> the syncro rings have more friction to bring the next gear up to speed.
>
> The redline ATF is designed to be used in a totally different situation.
>
> Even good synthetic oils will cause problems in our trannys if they don't
> have a friction additive. (BG Syncro-shift is suppose to have this also)
>
>
> Brad
> Check out my home page: http://home.austin.rr.com/overboost/
> E-Mail: bbedell@austin.rr.com ICQ#  3612682
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st
> [mailto:owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st]On Behalf Of Jim Berry
> Sent: Thursday, December 07, 2000 3:30 PM
> To: Jeff Lucius; Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st
> Subject: Re: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??
>
> Jeff
>
> I don't think any owner survey could tell you that info, not many
teardowns
> done so it would be conjecture on their part. Frank at Kormex provided
> a list at one time --- synchros were NOT 1st on his list. From my limited
> experience I would say the bronze/brass coating on the cones fails. If
> the car is driven too long with bad synchros the face gears get ground up
> also thus destroying the drive gear.
>
> BTY --- great write-up on the trans. I'm going to have to study the VCU a
> little more. How is the shaft removed, or held in place, I couldn't tell
> from
> the photos. Also on the synchro write-up you might point out that the
> assembled 1st/2nd set is not in neutral but has 1st gear selected.
>
>         Jim Berry
> =================================================
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Jeff Lucius <stealthman92@yahoo.com>
>
> > Hi Rich,
> >
> > Did the survey say what it is that so commonly fails on the 1-2
> > synchro? Is it the cone? Sleeve clutch gear teeth? Bearing? Hub
> > splines? For parts reference please see my web page:
>
>
>
> ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***
>
>
> ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***
>


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2000 18:05:52 +0100
From: Roger Gerl <roger.gerl@bluewin.ch>
Subject: RE: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences

Hmmm, we got the slightly larger 13g compressor wheels due to the fact that
we can run on faster speeds on the Autobahns. Maybe we also have a larger
oil cooler, I don't know. Our temp range is between -20°C in winter and
+35°C in summer (here in Switzerland) so this is also a wide range.

My car was the only official imported car, sold by Mitsu that had a tranny
replaced here in Switzerland. This is one out of about 350 or so. There
where two Stealths (never imported by Chrysler) who had the problem but
they do not count them. In general, Mitsu highly recommend to run only the
oils they are recommending (Castrol) locally and change it every 7500 km in
the engine and only at the 100'000km service in the tranny.

We can only speculate what the differences are (besides of brakes and ECU).
And when they replaced the tranny in my car it was shipped down from the
Netherlands (central organization of Mitsu) and the one they took out was
sent back to Getrag.

Well, in any case, I'll try to speak with the guy at Getrag next week .. in
German, although I heard he is from the north, so maybe Mikael can help
out, hehe.

Roger
93'3000GT TT
www.rtec.ch

At 09:12 08.12.2000 -0600, Willis, Charles E. wrote:
>Roger, if you believe the number of 8 within Europe, then either there are
>maybe only 16 VR4's in Europe, including the three that run on the track!
>Seriously, if the failure rate is significantly lower in Europe (the
>Southern Arctic), then maybe there is an overheating problem in the
>semi-tropical US that would be helped by an oversized transmission oil
>cooler.  I recall a similar climatic difference in the reliability of the
>Volkwagen Beatle.


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 19:53:35 -0000
From: "Sam Shelat" <sshelat@erols.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??

My 95 VR-4 is on its 3rd tranny--the first had synchro problems 36k(dealer
said it was okay), but replaced it due to leaks (porous metal prob).  It
leaked through a general area on the case --but no cracks?  The second was
also leaking at the junction btwn the transf. case and gearbox 55k.  The
third is okay after about 30,000 miles, but.......  I do not expect any
miracles like 120k---I figure I will upgrade to a 99 VR-4 in a year or so.
I like the car, and have very little problems with it as a daily driver, but
I am one of those believers in the 60k Merritt rule--oh and if you try to
shift while the wheels are spinning it grinds going into second :)

Sam
- -----Original Message-----
From: Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net>
To: Bill Wagner <wagner@sprynet.com>; OrangeFell@aol.com
<OrangeFell@aol.com>; Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st <Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st>
Date: Friday, December 08, 2000 6:21 AM
Subject: Re: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??


>Thankyouthankyouthankyouthankyou
>Bless your pea pickin' heart.
>
>Rich
>
>At 12:55 AM 12/8/00 -0500, Bill Wagner wrote:
>>Kenneth:
>>
>>Many of us have been on this list, as well as several other lists, for
>>years. We've sat and watched the Getrags drop like rain drops.
>>
>>I used to do a fair amount of research on the problem, since I was naive
>>enough to think that if reasonable and accurate data was being presented
>>to Mitsubishi and Chrysler that they would become concerned and take
>>some action to correct the problems. I had data from about 150 owners,
>>but Jack Tartadian had A LOT MORE....maybe he could confirm or deny what
>>I'm saying. For what it's worth, what "Rich old poop" says about the
>>failure rates is pretty much right on the money, particularly with the
>>50K +/-10K miles figure.
>
>***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 16:14:48 -0500
From: "WALTER D. BEST" <WDBO39@erols.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences

Maybe it's just me but I have over 93,000 on my car, I am the original
owner, purchased it new in Aug 92.  Switched over to Mobil 1 gear lube at
around 1000 miles just changed it at 90K and haven't had a bit of problems
with the trans, transfer case or diff.  I don't drive the car like I am 90,
and have done a few performance mods.  The only thing left for me to do is a
set of 660 -720cc fuel injector and either 15Gs or GT355 turbos.

As a matter of fact I have spent a total of $180 in repairs since I
purchased the car and $160 or that was for the window motor assembly.

If anyone is interested in the mods I have done you are more than welcome to
pull up my web page, listed below.

Dave Best
http://ifrag.ncsa.uiuc.edu/best/

But again it could just be me, because I had a Jaguar XJS, one of the old
ones with the V12 engine.  Had it for 8 years and didn't have any major
problems with it either.  The only reason I sold it was I got the VR4 and
wasn't driving it enough to keep the battery charged.



- ----- Original Message -----
From: "Vineet Singh (3S)" <stealthtt@ecanfix.com>
To: "Team3S" <Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st>
Sent: Friday, December 08, 2000 4:39 AM
Subject: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences


> MY 92 Stealth RT/TT bought with 80k on it = BAD 1st gear synchro...
> rest seems ok. BG synchroshift help overall feel, but not that
> synchro.
>
> Neighbor's 92 3000GT VR4 with 58k on it = Just got reamed about 5
> months ago... Bad tranny (1st, 2nd and 5th synchro's nearly shot).
> Total Stealership bill? 7000. They gave him new brake pads as a
> freebie. $7000... and he PAID for it.
>
> Friends 94 3000GT VR4 with 60k'ish miles, = Got a new tranny just
> before purchase... grinding in some gears, not too many details known.
>
> Stealth owner I met in my area with 66k miles = Just had a tranny
> replaced by his "uncles shop". He happened to have an identical car to
> mine, but in pearl white.
>
> That 60,000 mile theory sounds like a ringer (again, there are
> exceptions to every rule, but this is a damn obvious track record.)
>
> Vineet 'Vinny' Singh
> http://www.ecanfix.com/~doordoctor/ - Door panel blisters/bubbles?
> http://manualcd.dsm.org - DSM & 3/S Service manuals on CDROM
>
>
>
> ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***
>


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 08:54:35 -0600
From: "Jannusch, Matt" <mjannusch@marketwatch.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences

> I once spoke with a rep of Mitsu here in Switzerland and he
> reported about 8 tranny faliures ALLOVER continental
> EUROPE (not UK).

I don't think I'd consider that source necessarily reliable.  Kinda like
asking the manufacturer of the Hindenberg or the Titanic if their transports
are safe.  Of course the answer is "yes".  (Not that I'm comparing
transmissions with man-made disasters)

> In UK they have more failures due to much grey inports
> from straneg sources. BTW, only a few 3s are used on
> any track over Europe.....  racing is a possible cause
> for failures !

Why would there be more failures depending on where it is imported from?
They are all the same exact trannys from the same exact supplier (Getrag),
are they not?

Of course racing is a possible cause of failures, but there are people that
have reported failures on completely street-driven daily-use unmodified cars
(including one person I know very well).

Are they reliable for some people?  Yes.

Are they unreliable for other people?  Yes.

Seems like it is at least partially luck of the draw as others have said.
Either you get one with good workmanship and materials and it lasts a good
long time, or you get one with poor workmanship or materials and it
disintegrates in a very short period of time.

- -Matt
'95 3000GT Spyder VR4

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 08:45:51 -0600
From: "Jannusch, Matt" <mjannusch@marketwatch.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences

> That 60,000 mile theory sounds like a ringer (again, there are
> exceptions to every rule, but this is a damn obvious track record.)

A very good friend of mine, whose car I know the whole history of, had three
5-speed Getrags replaced on his bone-stock '91 VR4 in under 100,000 miles.
On his, two of the failures were output shaft splines and the third failure
was the 1-2 synchro.  He drives hard, but not excessively so.  Most of his
driving is daily-commute sort of driving with some autocrosses thrown in
occasionally.

My cars ('94 VR4, completely stock and '95 Spyder VR4 - stage 8 upgraded)
haven't had any tranny problems so far (knock on wood).  I put about 20,000
miles on the '94 with no problems and the owner after me hasn't had trouble
to the best of my knowlege either.  I drove/drive both hard but not
abusively.

Seems like the early 1G cars are more prone to tranny failure - mostly with
output shafts and synchros.

- -Matt
'95 3000GT Spyder VR4

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 07:58:58 -0800
From: "Chris Maxwell" <shmacker@home.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??

have you ever owned a Porsche, Ferrari, or Lamborgini (the water-cooled
Porsches are much more reliable than the old ones)?  I hear they have
HORRIBLE reliability.  They run for like 2 weeks and then something breaks.
Maybe it's not the tranny, but I assure you whatever breaks will cost more
than double what it would on our cars.  You would think that if you spent
over $100k for a "quality" sports car that you could "drive it like you
stole it" and nothing should break.

I still maintain that our trannies are of good quality and it's the overall
design of the car + the way they are driven that leads to the "premature
failures."  With so much power and AWD, something has to break, and the
tranny is the most complex part of the driveline system.  Just apply
Murphy's Law.

Chris

P.S. Even honda had a bad batch of engines go into S2000s.  The blocks were
cast too porous, and coolant was leaking through them.  Was there a recall?
No, Honda just replaced the engines (under waranty) when the owners noticed
the problems.  Just goes to show you that no car is built perfect.

> Okay, Chris, you drew me into this.
>
> 1.  Porsche and BMW didn't build their cars for track use, just
comfortable
> high speed driving, but they don't rely on that excuse to provide a
marginal
> transmission.
> 2.  If you make a product with a relatively high failure rate, then you
are
> ethically bound to either make it inexpensive, or at least make sure there
> are sufficient replacement parts.  Mechanics (professional and shade-tree)
> would hope that you would also take steps to make it easily maintainable.
> 3.  Virtually ALL US Mitsubishi dealers will NOT rebuild your Getrag
> transmission.  Why?  Because when the VR4 was introduced, the dealers were
> told that they would have to purchase a "special tool set" to rebuild the
> transmissions, and almost without exception, they chose NOT to make that
> investment, thinking that it would be rare (money-losing investment).
> 4.  There have been a lot of transmissions (both 5 speed and 6 speed) that
> failed early in their life cycle.  Many were replaced under warranty.  I
> have often wondered why there was not a recall on the transmissions.  I
> guess they figured that the engineering change to the spline and the
change
> to the 6 speed would eliminate the problems.  It didn't.
> 5.  When I was having some shifting problems with my '93 VR4 this spring,
I
> spoke with a seasoned mechanic who has rebuilt several VR4 transmissions.
> He talked about a source for parts for the transmission that were machined
> out of better material than the original equipment.  I just don't remember
> the source.
>
> The place is in Pearland, Texas and is called Morrow's Transmissions. The
> number is
> 281-997-8200. The person you want to speak to is Don Morrow.
>
> Chuck
>



***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 20:43:09 -0500
From: "Fred Richardson" <rich@magma.ca>
Subject: Team3S: 18" Rims

Dear List;
    Just hit black ice at 30MPH and ran into a curb sideways on a curve.
Both the stock chrome 18's on the left side are toast. Insurance will
probably cover it , but I would like to know if anyone has any used ones for
sale. I am in Canada near Ottawa.

Fred,
'95 RT TT
#121


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 14:20:49 EST
From: GTOTLR@cs.com
Subject: Team3S: Blitz SSBOV

I'm pretty sure everyone knows that the instructions for Blitz and many other
performance products are in Japanese.  Therefore, can anyone provide or know
where I can find detailed instructions for the installation of a Blitz SSBOV?
 I believe that I need some sort of kit but I am not sure.

Thanks in advance-----

Royal K. Watkins III
Senior Programmer Analyst
Total System Services Inc.
1995 Black 3000GT VR-4
2000 Yellow TL1000R

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 18:50:41 -0800 (PST)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@www.speedtoys.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??

True, but 450Hp in an alltrac relates to 825 in a VR4..when adjusted to
match apples to apples.

On Fri, 8 Dec 2000, Brad Bedell wrote:

> >From what I remember about my all-trac it had just a little loop for the
> oil-cooler (short u-bend like a PS cooler)   It would be super easy to add a
> cooler to it though.  That transmission actually had an oil-pump built into
> it internally.
>
> An oil-cooler might be a good idea in the 3000's.   I suppose one would have
> to figure out optimum operating temps and size a cooler accordingly.
>
> As for the All-trac tranny.  The gears separate in 3rd and 4th gear when you
> put ~450hp through it.   This then cracks the case and leaves the car in a
> nice flat spin :)
>
> The internals are not nearly as large as the getrag parts either.
>
>
> Brad
> Check out my home page: http://home.austin.rr.com/overboost/
> E-Mail: bbedell@austin.rr.com ICQ#  3612682
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Geoff Mohler [mailto:gemohler@www.speedtoys.com]
> Sent: Thursday, December 07, 2000 9:36 PM
> To: Brad Bedell
> Cc: Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st
> Subject: RE: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??
>
> Brad:
>
> I dunno how relevant this is, but the Celica AllTrac tranny is pretty much
> bulletproof, the only -major- thing I can tell from outside the tranny is
> that it has as OEM, an external oil cooler for the gearbox.
>
> I cant see it'd be difficult to do this on the VR4, nice side-access drain
> plug (and fill of course)...couple fittings, a 12v fluid pump, few hoses,
> and a cooler.
>
> Thoughts?
>
> Cant HURT.
>
> On Thu, 7 Dec 2000, Brad Bedell wrote:
>
> > I've been inside several transmissions...
> >
> > While there are some design questions out there, let us consider this:
> >
> > We should be thankful that the gears in these transmissions.  Mustang
> > transmissions usually shatter the whole gear assemblies.
> > There are several of us who have had zero transmission problems with two
> > years of hard driving. (me)
> >
> > I know of only a few transmissions that have actually given up from abuse.
> > (meaning gears break, case breaks etc).
> >
> > My thoughts/theory is that the steel syncro rings that are coated with
> > brass-like friction material is not as wear resistant as it should be for
> > the gears to mesh properly.
> > Meaning there is too much inertia from the gears for the chosen material
> on
> > the syncro.
> >
> >
> > Most of the transmission problems have come from parts that are designed
> to
> > wear out.
> >
> > As for redline.   MTL and MT-90 has a friction additive that actually
> helps
> > the syncro rings have more friction to bring the next gear up to speed.
> >
> > The redline ATF is designed to be used in a totally different situation.
> >
> > Even good synthetic oils will cause problems in our trannys if they don't
> > have a friction additive. (BG Syncro-shift is suppose to have this also)
> >
> >
> > Brad
> > Check out my home page: http://home.austin.rr.com/overboost/
> > E-Mail: bbedell@austin.rr.com ICQ#  3612682
> >
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st
> > [mailto:owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st]On Behalf Of Jim Berry
> > Sent: Thursday, December 07, 2000 3:30 PM
> > To: Jeff Lucius; Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st
> > Subject: Re: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??
> >
> > Jeff
> >
> > I don't think any owner survey could tell you that info, not many
> teardowns
> > done so it would be conjecture on their part. Frank at Kormex provided
> > a list at one time --- synchros were NOT 1st on his list. From my limited
> > experience I would say the bronze/brass coating on the cones fails. If
> > the car is driven too long with bad synchros the face gears get ground up
> > also thus destroying the drive gear.
> >
> > BTY --- great write-up on the trans. I'm going to have to study the VCU a
> > little more. How is the shaft removed, or held in place, I couldn't tell
> > from
> > the photos. Also on the synchro write-up you might point out that the
> > assembled 1st/2nd set is not in neutral but has 1st gear selected.
> >
> >         Jim Berry
> > =================================================
> > ----- Original Message -----
> > From: Jeff Lucius <stealthman92@yahoo.com>
> >
> > > Hi Rich,
> > >
> > > Did the survey say what it is that so commonly fails on the 1-2
> > > synchro? Is it the cone? Sleeve clutch gear teeth? Bearing? Hub
> > > splines? For parts reference please see my web page:
> >
> >
> >
> > ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***
> >
> >
> > ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***
> >
>
>


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2000 20:47:47 -0600
From: Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net>
Subject: Re: Team3S: 2nd tranny failure

>Dealership's told me they can't replace the part, and want $8k to put whole
>new tranny/transfer case unit in (no warranty). >I've found a shop that
will do the replacement for $4K (they've located a
>used unit), which still hurts!

I feel for all you people who have bad dealers. It might be worth it to
have your car trailered to Zimmerman Ford Mitsubishi here in Cedar Rapids,
Iowa. They replaced my '94 6 speed with a new factory tranny for $3,000
(covered by warranty).

And what's this "no warranty" stuff? If Mitsu puts in a new tranny, it
comes with a 12-month factory warranty.

Rich/old poop

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2000 12:09:45 -0600
From: "Greg S." <wizards@mhtc.net>
Subject: Getrag Failures (WASRe: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??)

With all these studies and documented evidence of pre-mature failure, I can't
help but wonder if Chrysler and Mitsu (and Getrag for that matter) have the
same information and documentation and are fully aware and convinced that
there IS a problem, but are refusing to acknowledge it for fear that they'd
get into a "Firestone" situation where they'd have to replace all trannies
with something completely different or super reinforced.  Firestone had tons
of evidence in their possession about the failure rates and fatalities, but
refused to acknowledge them until their hand got caught in the cookie jar.
Just makes me wonder.

Any lawyers in the group familiar with the legal implications of the Firestone
deal and how those laws / regulations could possibly be applied to our
situation?  With a very low mileage TT I don't have a problem with my tranny
yet (knocking VERY hard and rapidly on my desk), but I'm wise enough to accept
the inevitable that it may one day be a problem.

Greg


Merritt wrote:

> I can't take all this support!
> I'm not used to it.
> Thanks, Cody
>
> Rich
>
> At 12:46 AM 12/8/00 -0600, cody wrote:
> >I concur.  <snip>  With those things - it's like a time
> >bomb and no one knows what the clock has on it..<snip>.
> >With the Getrags, it just seems 60K miles is their average lifespan, with
> >some exceptions both more and less.
> >
> >
>
> ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 19:02:52 -0800 (PST)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@www.speedtoys.com>
Subject: Team3S: 5pt seats WITH rails needed..

Anyone have any 'sperience with any vendors that have a 5pt seat
for the VR4 with a sliding rail kit?

Coming soon this eve..photos of my Tilton flywheel/clutch combination.


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 19:12:25 -0800
From: "Jim Berry" <fastmax@home.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: 2nd tranny failure

Susan

Not sure what you actually need --- 'transfer case rod' dosn't sound like the
correct name. If it's the output shaft to the transfer case you can get a
replacement part. Your best bet is to talk to Frank at Kormex and see what
he has to say. Kormex sells reconditioned transmissions and transfer cases
and Frank has shown himself to be very helpful. He has even been willing to
talk to your mechanic and help him out.

 Kormex Trans Parts
2151 E. Philadelphia
Ontario, Ca  91761
(800) 429-5464

        Jim berry
====================================================


- ----- Original Message -----
From: Susan . <vr4girl@hotmail.com>
To: <Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st>


My '91 VR-4 (bought it at 70K in '97) had the 1st
> tranny replaced at 50K, and now has a busted transfer case rod (34K on new
> tranny).
>
> Dealership's told me they can't replace the part, and want $8k to put whole
> new tranny/transfer case unit in (no warranty). I've downloaded a stack of
> files on similar issues on my yr/make/model from NHTSA, but all owner's
> names are confidential, so luckily, I've found this list!



***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 19:41:13 -0800 (PST)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@www.speedtoys.com>
Subject: Team3S: Tilton clutch photos

http://www.speedtoys.com/~gemohler/vr4/

Its an OEM sized flywheel, but aluminum with a replacable steel face, the
clutch housing is..aluminum, dual plate.

Entire flywheel/clutch weight is 14lbs.

Anyone care to guess what a stock flywheel, clutch disc, and pressure
plate weighs?


Cost:  $1600 or so.
Use:  DEFINITELY not for dragracing or the street..unless youre somewhat
careful about hot starts off green lights.


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 16:57:23 -0500
From: "Trent" <bdtrent@netzero.net>
Subject: Team3S: Porterfield Sales

All/Rich

Could Rich or anyone else point me in the best direction for ordering
Porterfield brake parts?  Speaking of brake parts, Rich has recommended Ford
brake fluid in the past, is this Ford racing brake fluid or just plain Ford
brake fluid? Will there be any compatability issues with Motul that is
currently in my lines?

Thanks in advance,
DaveT/92TT

_______________________________________________
Why pay for something you could get for free?
NetZero provides FREE Internet Access and Email
http://www.netzero.net/download/index.html

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 19:42:22 -0800 (PST)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@www.speedtoys.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Porterfield Sales

www.porterfield-brakes.com

On Fri, 8 Dec 2000, Trent wrote:

> All/Rich
>
> Could Rich or anyone else point me in the best direction for ordering
> Porterfield brake parts?  Speaking of brake parts, Rich has recommended Ford
> brake fluid in the past, is this Ford racing brake fluid or just plain Ford
> brake fluid? Will there be any compatability issues with Motul that is
> currently in my lines?
>
> Thanks in advance,
> DaveT/92TT
>
> _______________________________________________
> Why pay for something you could get for free?
> NetZero provides FREE Internet Access and Email
> http://www.netzero.net/download/index.html
>
> ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***
>


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 21:47:40 -0600
From: "Brad Bedell" <bbedell@austin.rr.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Tilton clutch photos

Looks similar to the OS Giken in design.  (Except the Giken setup looks to
have a larger disk area)

However, the Giken is not 14lbs.


As for stock weight...   36lbs :)


Brad
Check out my home page: http://home.austin.rr.com/overboost/
E-Mail: bbedell@austin.rr.com ICQ#  3612682

- -----Original Message-----
From: owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st
[mailto:owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st]On Behalf Of Geoff Mohler
Sent: Friday, December 08, 2000 9:41 PM
To: team3s@stealth-3000gt.st
Subject: Team3S: Tilton clutch photos

http://www.speedtoys.com/~gemohler/vr4/

Its an OEM sized flywheel, but aluminum with a replacable steel face, the
clutch housing is..aluminum, dual plate.

Entire flywheel/clutch weight is 14lbs.

Anyone care to guess what a stock flywheel, clutch disc, and pressure
plate weighs?


Cost:  $1600 or so.
Use:  DEFINITELY not for dragracing or the street..unless youre somewhat
careful about hot starts off green lights.


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2000 21:51:41 -0600
From: Merritt <merritt@cedar-rapids.net>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Porterfield Sales

>Could Rich or anyone else point me in the best direction for ordering
>Porterfield brake parts?

Go to www.porterfieldbrakes.com or call them at 949/548-4470
We get a 20% discount on parts because of the list. Be sure to mention it.

I don't know what to tell you to do with a 92 car. I hope you are not
trying to go racing with 92 brakes. Eeek!

 Speaking of brake parts, Rich has recommended Ford
>brake fluid in the past, is this Ford racing brake fluid or just plain Ford
>brake fluid?

Just plain old Ford High Performance Brake Fluid, available at any Ford
dealer for $3 a pint. Best bargain in racing.

 Will there be any compatability issues with Motul that is
>currently in my lines?

Probably. It would be best to completely flush the old fluid out and
replace it all with the Ford fluid. That's fairly easy to do. Just dip or
suck out all the old fluid from the reservoir, and fill with new Ford
fluid. Working one wheel at a time, keep bleeding until the color of fluid
changes (I think Motul is red and Ford is clear). At $3 a can, it's no big
expense.

If you are racing with this system, I have further advice on care and
feeding of the brake fluid..

Rich



***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 19:56:43 -0800 (PST)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@www.speedtoys.com>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Tilton clutch photos

Giken is probly more a drag clutch then..yes?  (just guessing)

On Fri, 8 Dec 2000, Brad Bedell wrote:

> Looks similar to the OS Giken in design.  (Except the Giken setup looks to
> have a larger disk area)
>
> However, the Giken is not 14lbs.
>
>
> As for stock weight...   36lbs :)
>
>
> Brad
> Check out my home page: http://home.austin.rr.com/overboost/
> E-Mail: bbedell@austin.rr.com ICQ#  3612682
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st
> [mailto:owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st]On Behalf Of Geoff Mohler
> Sent: Friday, December 08, 2000 9:41 PM
> To: team3s@stealth-3000gt.st
> Subject: Team3S: Tilton clutch photos
>
> http://www.speedtoys.com/~gemohler/vr4/
>
> Its an OEM sized flywheel, but aluminum with a replacable steel face, the
> clutch housing is..aluminum, dual plate.
>
> Entire flywheel/clutch weight is 14lbs.
>
> Anyone care to guess what a stock flywheel, clutch disc, and pressure
> plate weighs?
>
>
> Cost:  $1600 or so.
> Use:  DEFINITELY not for dragracing or the street..unless youre somewhat
> careful about hot starts off green lights.
>
>
> ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***
>
>


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 06:58:41 -0800 (PST)
From: Jeff Lucius <stealthman92@yahoo.com>
Subject: Team3S: Trany failure rate (was: Redline bad for Getrags ??)

From Eric Bowden's web page,

http://www.geocities.com/MotorCity/Downs/9907/3s-production.html

I estimate that the total production of VR4s and TTs was something
like 28,000 cars - about 20% of total production. Does anyone here
really think that the personal experiences of a small fraction of
something like 600 enthusiasts (known for our modification desires if
not skills and racer tendencies) can represent anything like a
scientific/accurate poll of the failure rate of AWD transaxles in the
hands of Joe Average? I agree the synchros and the output shaft are
problem areas, but I think sweeping generalizations regarding the
"automatic" failure tendencies of our trannies does a disservice to
the 3S community and our cars. Besides, a "rebuilt" trany ($1700) is
still much cheaper than a set of 15G turbos or a set up TE37 wheels!
What? Are 9B turbos and 30-lb cast aluminum wheels design flaws also?
(I know, I know, the answer is yes to the last question.) :)

Jeff Lucius, www.stealth316.com

__________________________________________________
Do You Yahoo!?
Yahoo! Shopping - Thousands of Stores. Millions of Products.
http://shopping.yahoo.com/

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 08 Dec 2000 11:09:53 EST
From: StealthCT@aol.com
Subject: Team3S: Parts

I would like to thank all of you who responded to my offer to sell some parts.  There some really nice people on this list which makes me proud to be a 3000/Stealth owner.  I have a set of 1994 Stealth TT Fog Lights (working order) I will sell.  Please contact me privately if you are interested.  Regards  Charles

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 09:37:20 EST
From: Aso8@aol.com
Subject: Re: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences

My 91 VR-4 has about 120,000 miles and has been used for drag racing.
Not long ago it was opened to change the output shaft to the stronger Kormex
type, just as a precaution. Looking at the inside syncros, gears etc., the
tranny was still in excellent condition. Just so you get both sides...
Arty 91 VR-4

In a message dated 12/8/00 1:36:49 AM Pacific Standard Time,
stealthtt@ecanfix.com writes:

<< Subj:     Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences
 Date:  12/8/00 1:36:49 AM Pacific Standard Time
 From:  stealthtt@ecanfix.com (Vineet Singh (3S))
 Sender:    owner-team3s@stealth-3000gt.st
 To:    Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st (Team3S)
  >>

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 09:07:49 -0600
From: "Willis, Charles E." <cewillis@TexasChildrensHospital.org>
Subject: RE: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??

Okay, Chris, you drew me into this.

1.  Porsche and BMW didn't build their cars for track use, just comfortable
high speed driving, but they don't rely on that excuse to provide a marginal
transmission.
2.  If you make a product with a relatively high failure rate, then you are
ethically bound to either make it inexpensive, or at least make sure there
are sufficient replacement parts.  Mechanics (professional and shade-tree)
would hope that you would also take steps to make it easily maintainable.
3.  Virtually ALL US Mitsubishi dealers will NOT rebuild your Getrag
transmission.  Why?  Because when the VR4 was introduced, the dealers were
told that they would have to purchase a "special tool set" to rebuild the
transmissions, and almost without exception, they chose NOT to make that
investment, thinking that it would be rare (money-losing investment).
4.  There have been a lot of transmissions (both 5 speed and 6 speed) that
failed early in their life cycle.  Many were replaced under warranty.  I
have often wondered why there was not a recall on the transmissions.  I
guess they figured that the engineering change to the spline and the change
to the 6 speed would eliminate the problems.  It didn't.
5.  When I was having some shifting problems with my '93 VR4 this spring, I
spoke with a seasoned mechanic who has rebuilt several VR4 transmissions.
He talked about a source for parts for the transmission that were machined
out of better material than the original equipment.  I just don't remember
the source.

The place is in Pearland, Texas and is called Morrow's Transmissions. The
number is
281-997-8200. The person you want to speak to is Don Morrow. 

Chuck

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Chris Maxwell [SMTP:shmacker@home.com]
> Sent: Friday, December 08, 2000 1:35 AM
> To: team3s@mail.stealth-3000gt.st
> Subject: Re: Team3S: Redline bad for Getrags ??
>
> *In response to a great many posts from some people I don't know or
> respect
> too much currently...*
>
> I guess that I'm just lucky then...155k miles on mine and it's still
> running? maybe it's a dream.  someone pinch me.  I bought my car used with
> 68k miles and I asked the previous owner if there was any replacement of
> major parts and he said there wasn't so maybe my tranny is a fluke of
> nature...  Btw, I don't bother using Redline or BG Synchoshift either in
> my
> tranny.  I just use plain old Valvoline Synthetic.  I'm also 21 yrs old
> (bought the car when I was 17) so you can guess that I beat the
> ever-loving-bad-stuff out of the car.
>
> I think poling people from a list like this about tranny problems is wrong
> anyways.  It doesn't accurately represent the true cross-section of
> 3000GT/Stealth owners.  Most people on these lists modify their cars (just
> look at sigs) so of course reliability would be lower than usual.  I
> personally hardly EVER see a modified 3000GT/Stealth in the SF Bay Area,
> but
> I see plenty of bone stock VR-4s/TTs.  Me and my friend actually know most
> of the people that have modified their VR-4s around here because he likes
> to
> hunt them down when he sees one, and he knows the owners most of the speed
> shops around here.  I'm guessing that less than 10% of people with VR-4/TT
> cars modify them, and I bet less than 10% of VR-4/TT owners on this list
> (and others like it) have bone stock cars.  And of the people with bone
> stock cars, I bet none of you drive them like they are stock.  I might be
> young and somewhat inexperienced, but this just doesn't seem like the best
> place to ask a survey about reliability.
>
> So in conclusion, end this stupid arguing about how long the tranny will
> last.  Trannies break in all cars, not just ours.  Do you honestly think
> that a 400hp (that's what most of us have right, or at least are striving
> for?), AWD car with a tranny built for a mere 300hp and "Grand Touring"
> type
> driving is going to last forever?  Mitsu didn't build these cars for track
> use, they were built as comfortable high speed transports.
>
> Take care,
> Chris
> 92 R/T TT (355 turbos, AVC-R, (bunch of other crap) and no common sense
> about boost manipulation)
>
>
>
> ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 09:12:56 -0600
From: "Willis, Charles E." <cewillis@TexasChildrensHospital.org>
Subject: RE: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences

Roger, if you believe the number of 8 within Europe, then either there are
maybe only 16 VR4's in Europe, including the three that run on the track!
Seriously, if the failure rate is significantly lower in Europe (the
Southern Arctic), then maybe there is an overheating problem in the
semi-tropical US that would be helped by an oversized transmission oil
cooler.  I recall a similar climatic difference in the reliability of the
Volkwagen Beatle.

Chuck

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Roger Gerl [SMTP:roger.gerl@bluewin.ch]
> Sent: Friday, December 08, 2000 4:47 AM
> To: Team3S@stealth-3000gt.st
> Subject: Re: Team3S: FWIW, my tranny experiences
>
> I once spoke with a rep of Mitsu here in Switzerland and he reported about
>
> 8 tranny faliures ALLOVER continental EUROPE (not UK). In fact all
> failures
> they had started due to other problems like broken parts in the clutch and
>
> then wrong work from the mechanic who changed the parts ! Same happend to
> me as a sping in the clutch boke (!) and it had to be changed. The
> installation was done bad and it slipped again after a few hundred kms.
> Then I noticed that my front wheels are slipping when I gave too much gas
> and we found out that the output shaft was grinded down. Mitsu then
> decided
> to replace the whole tranny and transfer case at no cost for me (4 years
> old car) and I got a Merc SL for those 3 days for free. Now M having about
>
> 70k on the car, about 40k on this tranny and zero problems. In Europe the
> 2nd gens have NO REPORTS and the all other porblems always occured after
> bad work ! In UK they have more failures due to much grey inports from
> straneg sources. BTW, only a few 3s are used on any track over Europe.....
>
> racing is a possible cause for failures !
>
> Roger
> 93'3000GT TT
> www.rtec.ch
>
>
> ***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Sat, 9 Dec 2000 00:08:59 EST
From: UNCLEDONUT@aol.com
Subject: Re: Team3S: Tilton clutch photos

In a message dated 12/8/00 10:38:08 PM Eastern Standard Time,
gemohler@www.speedtoys.com writes:

>
>  Anyone care to guess what a stock flywheel, clutch disc, and pressure
>  plate weighs?
>

I'll weigh my setup tomorrow and get back to you.

- -Dave Rich
'91 R/T TT

***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 21:15:25 -0800
From: "Jim Berry" <fastmax@home.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Tilton clutch photos

Geoff

Speaking of clutches ---- how did that oil pan baffle project turn out, are you
going to share the design with us other wanna-be racer types. I'm concerned
about those long carousel turns e.g. turn 2 at Willow springs.

        Jim Berry
=====================================================
 
- ----- Original Message -----
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@www.speedtoys.com>
To: <team3s@stealth-3000gt.st>
>
> Its an OEM sized flywheel, but aluminum with a replacable steel face, the
> clutch housing is..aluminum, dual plate.
>
> Entire flywheel/clutch weight is 14lbs.
>
> Anyone care to guess what a stock flywheel, clutch disc, and pressure
> plate weighs?
>
>
> Cost:  $1600 or so.
> Use:  DEFINITELY not for dragracing or the street..unless youre somewhat
> careful about hot starts off green lights.



***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

------------------------------

Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 21:24:40 -0800 (PST)
From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@www.speedtoys.com>
Subject: Re: Team3S: Tilton clutch photos

All you have to do is weld in baffles to keep it from sloshing away...like
most gas tanks have.

On Fri, 8 Dec 2000, Jim Berry wrote:

> Geoff
>
> Speaking of clutches ---- how did that oil pan baffle project turn out, are you
> going to share the design with us other wanna-be racer types. I'm concerned
> about those long carousel turns e.g. turn 2 at Willow springs.
>
>         Jim Berry
> =====================================================

> ----- Original Message -----
> From: Geoff Mohler <gemohler@www.speedtoys.com>
> To: <team3s@stealth-3000gt.st>
> >
> > Its an OEM sized flywheel, but aluminum with a replacable steel face, the
> > clutch housing is..aluminum, dual plate.
> >
> > Entire flywheel/clutch weight is 14lbs.
> >
> > Anyone care to guess what a stock flywheel, clutch disc, and pressure
> > plate weighs?
> >
> >
> > Cost:  $1600 or so.
> > Use:  DEFINITELY not for dragracing or the street..unless youre somewhat
> > careful about hot starts off green lights.
>
>
>


***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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Date: Fri, 8 Dec 2000 23:41:29 -0600
From: "Eric Cheek" <echeek@cox-internet.com>
Subject: Team3S: Transmission failures

Hello all,
just joined the list a couple days ago since I've purchased a 92 VR4 the
first of November and decided that I should research it a bit for perf mods
and the likes. now it looks like my car may have tranny probs that actually
cost more than the tranny probs I have in my Jeep wranger(93 4 cylinder
2.2liter I4). I has a Jap built 5 speed and I have replaced the transmission
4 times now ... I can't get "new" parts for it, and about the only choice is
to buy a new tranny ...don't even ask the cost on that or buy a used tranny.
It takes about 3-8 months to find a used one so now I collect them, 1 in the
Jeep and 2 in the garage (Purchased for cheap from other club members
upgrading to stronger tranny/motor combos) The biggest reason the tranny's
fail is because of the gearing and the way third gear is made. It has an
"oil port" through the gear, and 3rd is the most used gear, so third gear
cracks, breaks and takes out the entire cluster ..... Also the synchros are
known for failure. My latest tranny has ran perfect for much longer that any
of the others and I am running castrol 20W50 full synthetic motor oil in it.
The rebuilder said that the cleaners/anti oxidizers help maintain the life
of the synchros and help prevent any moisture getting to the gears. (Like I
said hard core 4-wheeling)
Any back to the VR4, I've only had it a month and its my daily driver and I
LOVE to drive it, if the tranny fails then I will have it fixed/replaced
even if I have to sell my Jeep to do it.(and I told my wife she would go
before the Jeep would ... long story :)... but I do love my wife to death
;-) ) Has " Kormex Trans Parts" or anyone else done any real testing on the
internals of the Getrag for manufacturing flaws ? Things like hardness
tests, carbon content, cell type (perlite etc)? I would think some basic
metallurgy tests would show if there were some major defects. And there
might be something with the metal reacting negatively to some substances
which could be tested for. I would think Getrag would test for these type
things expecially with the caliber of car their transmissions are going in,
and lastly my vote is for someone copying/cloning the Getrag internals with
better parts so we can all buy them and get on to the next weak link in the
wonderful cars we drive, just think we could all have Ugos :)......

Eric Cheek, Stock 92VR4 with nonfunctioning AERO and Active Suspension, but
the turbos kick and the Active exhaust works :)....



***  Info:  http://www.Team3S.com/Rules.htm  ***

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