4.11 Swap Completed...

[Chiketkd]

First off, I want to thank Mike (Rufus), Tom (svxfiles), Diana (green_eyed_lady), John (svxcess), Ron Mummert, Bill (SVXRIDE), Mike's friend Joe and Tom's two son's Nick (boxer6) and Dave. These great people were the reason why this swap happened.

The swap itself was quite interesting. After jacking the car up and removing the heatshields, exhaust, driveshaft and rear diff, pulling the trans was a little tricky due to its weight, but relatively straight forward.

The Outback Sport trans that was going in was in great shape w/ ~ 85K original miles on it. Tom and Diana swapped over the SVX Torque Convertor into the Outback trans. Later, Diana and I swapped in the SVX electronic speed sensor which was relatively simple once we got the old mechanical unit out.

The biggest issue was with the 4.11 R&P gears swap, since the Outback Sport's diff was too small to transfer the limited slip over to, and the axle connections were different. Since we didn't have enough time to swap the 4.11 R&P gears out of that diff into my SVX diff, Tom took them home to put together and we'll swap the new diff into my car in about 2 weeks. Mike had a spare SVX diff that we removed the 3.55 R&P gears from so that the driveshaft could spin freely but not physically spin the rear axles, which we installed to use in the interim.

After reinstalling the trans and hooking everything back up, John put in my fwd fuse so that my rear driveshaft wouldn't have to spin needlessly.

One cool trick Tom had up his sleeve, was removing the alternator and then using a 2ft extender to unbolt the Torque Convertor bolts.

My highlight of the day came when I was working on something around the back of the car, went to the front to get a tool and found Tom kneeling on my motor reconnecting the starter and the other connectors at the top of the trans! It was a sight to see... :D Another cool sight was seeing Mike with his welder, fixing my one heat shield that was loose - it looked like something out of Monster Garage!

Dave had the honors of starting my car when only the headers were on - one loud and awesome sound! After we were all done at 2am, Mike and I went out for a spin and the car was running great! My new trans shifts at 6500+ rpms in each gear and the shifts are firm and solid!

Impressions: On the drive home I could definitely feel the extra pull of the gears. My SVX Torque convertor locked up solidly at 50mph and my cruising rpms weren't too bad at all. My speedometer has been off by 4mph since I bought the car, and I checked my new rpms at various 'corrected speeds'in 4th gear w/ the T/C locked:

60 mph - 2350
75 mph - 3000
100 mph - 3900

I took it up to 120mph briefly on the interstate and my rpms were spinning at approx 4700 before letting off the gas...

I'll be able to get an estimate on my new fuel consumption later this afternoon when I go to teh gas station. However, I can safely say my milaeage hasn't been affected greatly. My car has currently has 392 miles on the trip odometer, and my low fuel light first came on 1 mile before my house.

Thanks again to everyone that helped or PM'd me Friday to see how the swap was going...

-Chike

P.S. I'm exhausted right now as I left my house at 4:45 am on Friday 7/23 worked all day and nigth on the swap and drove straight home afterwards and arrived at 5:00am on Saturday morning... Oh the power of adrenaline and caffeine! :D

P.P.S. Pics are in my locker under 4.11 Swap! :)

[Chiketkd]

Outback Sport 4.11 trans:
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/19615.jpg

Outback Sport Diff (left) vs SVX Diff (right):
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/19622.jpg

4.11 Trans Installed:
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/19623.jpg

-Chike

[Chiketkd]

One other observation: Due to the extra acceleration, the TCU induced torque reduction between shifts is even more noticeable. After receiving my K&N panel filter on 7/26, my next little mod will be a small car shift kit for quicker and firmer shifts!!! :)

-Chike

[boxer6]

Hey chike,

I'm glad I could be there. It was a cool experience. Funny thing, It seemed like your tranny swap went smoother than mine! Sure, after my trans was swapped the engine went... and after we changed the engine we found out the new tranny was broken:(:... so then we had to get another transmission... and instal it... But still:confused:

[svxsubaru1]

Originally posted by Chiketkd


One cool trick Tom had up his sleeve, was removing the alternator and then using a 2ft extender to unbolt the Torque Convertor bolts.





I wish i knew that it took me 2 hours before to get them off.

Sence you should be at a higher rpm, wont this casue the torq converter to lock casuing less heat.

[wawazat??]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
One cool trick Tom had up his sleeve, was removing the alternator and then using a 2ft extender to unbolt the Torque Convertor bolts.


-Chike




Hey Tom or Chike I have a question about the statement above. I've removed the auto from mine as well as pulled the engine and have never had much difficulty in unboting things. What bolts does this trick help remove? The torque convertor to flexplate bolts?

Todd

[Chiketkd]

I went and filled up this afternoon.

412.1 miles on 16.6 gal = 24.8 mpg

-Chike

[Chiketkd]

Thanks a bunch Nick.

I heard stories from your Dad about the game of darts you, Dave and Ron were having upstairs... I guess no one ever told you Ron Mummert was a semi-professional at darts! ;)

I had a great time! Glad your whole family could make and I look forward to seeing you guys again in about 2 weeks... :)

-Chike
Originally posted by boxer6
Hey chike,

I'm glad I could be there. It was a cool experience. Funny thing, It seemed like your tranny swap went smoother than mine! Sure, after my trans was swapped the engine went... and after we changed the engine we found out the new tranny was broken:(:... so then we had to get another transmission... and instal it... But still:confused:

[BoondockSVX]

Very cool Chike... if you could make it to the strip, it'd be neat to see what kind of times you were running now, so we could see how much of a diff it made. heh. Diff= differential too I guess.

- Jim

[Chiketkd]

Todd,

I'm not 100% sure I'm calling the part by the correct name. It's either the torque convertor or bell housing bolts, but it's right by where the trans connects to the back of the engine.

Tom would loosen/tighten a bolt, and then rotate the main crankshaft until the next bolt came up into position - and repeat until all bolts were loosened/tightened...

-Chike
Originally posted by wawazat??
Hey Tom or Chike I have a question about the statement above. I've removed the auto from mine as well as pulled the engine and have never had much difficulty in unboting things. What bolts does this trick help remove? The torque convertor to flexplate bolts?

Todd

[Chiketkd]

Correct Jim. It's my rear differential that needs to have the 4.11 Ring & Pinion gears transferred over. They should be in my car in the next 2 weeks. I'll then take out the fwd fuse and get awd again! :)

One other observation about having fwd and 4.11 gears, is that it's so easy to spin my tires in 1st gear now. I really need to back off the throttle when leaving the line...

I plan to be at the track in mid September to get my baseline times with these mods. Following this, I hope to get a OBDII chip upgrade from ECUTune along with a cat back system. I'll then focus my efforts on modifying my suspension over the winter with Mychailo's urethane bushings and stiffer spring kit! :)

-Chike
Originally posted by BoondockSVX
Diff= differential too I guess.

[tancred]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Correct Jim. It's my rear differential that needs to have the 4.11 Ring & Pinion gears transferred over. They should be in my car in the next 2 weeks. I'll then take out the fwd fuse and get awd again! :)

One other observation about having fwd and 4.11 gears, is that it's so easy to spin my tires in 1st gear now. I really need to back off the throttle when leaving the line...

I plan to be at the track in mid September to get my baseline times with these mods. Following this, I hope to get a OBDII chip upgrade from ECUTune along with a cat back system. I'll then focus my efforts on modifying my suspension over the winter with Mychailo's urethane bushings and stiffer spring kit! :)

-Chike


Chike you little tuner you, im so proud..

[Beldin]

Wow this is exciting to hear. Me and Darren (UT_SVX) will be taking his car off the stands hopefully tomorrow or Monday and should be starting it Monday or Tuesday. We only have a few things left to do. When it's done I'll have to tell about all the crap we did. Including how many things we have broken and had to fix. I am getting excited as I am sure you are right now. Sounds like everything went fairly well too.

We are using a 2002 RS tranny and rear diff with only 300 miles on them so hopefully they work well. The rear diff is exactly like the one in the SVX so everything wen smooth and all we had to change was the ring onto the LSD and into the new diff.

[Chiketkd]

:D :D :D
Originally posted by tancred
Chike you little tuner you, im so proud..

[Chiketkd]

Let me know how the swap ends up. I wasn't sure if the '02 Impreza RS trans would be a direct plug-n-play for our TCUs. Are you guys using an impreza TCU or the SVX's?

Good luck and let us know how it goes!!!

-Chike
Originally posted by Beldin
We are using a 2002 RS tranny and rear diff with only 300 miles on them so hopefully they work well. The rear diff is exactly like the one in the SVX so everything wen smooth and all we had to change was the ring onto the LSD and into the new diff.

[Beldin]

Oh are you adding a Auto Tranny?

We are doing a 5spd RS tranny with the 4.11 gears. So the TCU is gone bye bye.

[Chiketkd]

Yeah, this was an Outback Sport 4EAT trans I swapped in. Good luck with the 5 spd swap though! :)

-Chike
Originally posted by Beldin
Oh are you adding a Auto Tranny?

We are doing a 5spd RS tranny with the 4.11 gears. So the TCU is gone bye bye.

[IggDawg]

I'm looking into doing this myself. would you say it's definitely worth the effort? I can't wait to see what kinds of timeslips you get with this with respect to your old ones :D .

props on freeing up some performance from one of our noble machines :cool:

[SVXRide]

Chike,
2am, huh??? Boy, would I have been in trouble with the wife if I had stuck around 'till the end (as it was, the traffic home was horrible and I didn't get home until slightly after 7:00). Since I wasn't there at the very beginning, did Tom perhaps take the starter out to allow for the 2 ft breaker bar on the torque converter bolts?
Also - and I think this is important for future 4:11 mods - I think Tom and I agreed that the issue with the diffs is the way the ring gear is held in place. If you check the pics you posted (and I'll post the ones I took when I get into the office on Monday) the SVX LSD has bolt on side plates while the 4:11 donor diff uses screw-in pieces that you have to use a spanner (think a larger version of the little tool that comes with Delta faucets when you install a single arm unit) on to grab into the notches with. I believe Tom told me that the Outback diff they used for their 4:11 effort had bolt on side plates just like the SVX's. Check with Rufus (Mike), but I think your "donor" diff was actually out of a Legacy sedan.
Congrats on the mod!
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

Yeah, we were there until pretty late in the night. Thanks for coming out and helping in the afternoon. I know Tom didn't reinstall the starter until the very end, so I'm pretty sure he tightened up the torque convertor bolts with the method you described. He was kneeling on my engine for quite some time doing a bunch of stuff up there... :D

The 4.11 diff that I have is not from Legacy sedan but the same '96 Impreza Outback Sport that my trans came out of.

-Chike

P.S. Thanks again for the extra bottle of diff oil.
Originally posted by SVXRide
Chike,
2am, huh??? Boy, would I have been in trouble with the wife if I had stuck around 'till the end (as it was, the traffic home was horrible and I didn't get home until slightly after 7:00). Since I wasn't there at the very beginning, did Tom perhaps take the starter out to allow for the 2 ft breaker bar on the torque converter bolts?
Also - and I think this is important for future 4:11 mods - I think Tom and I agreed that the issue with the diffs is the way the ring gear is held in place. If you check the pics you posted (and I'll post the ones I took when I get into the office on Monday) the SVX LSD has bolt on side plates while the 4:11 donor diff uses screw-in pieces that you have to use a spanner (think a larger version of the little tool that comes with Delta faucets when you install a single arm unit) on to grab into the notches with. I believe Tom told me that the Outback diff they used for their 4:11 effort had bolt on side plates just like the SVX's. Check with Rufus (Mike), but I think your "donor" diff was actually out of a Legacy sedan.
Congrats on the mod!
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

Definitely. My car is more responsive, and less strain is placed on my trans as the gears are doing more of the work.

I can't wait to take it to the track as well, but first I'll need to get my awd squared away...

-Chike
Originally posted by IggDawg
I'm looking into doing this myself. would you say it's definitely worth the effort?

[nsm484]

Talking about all this tranny work
Has anyone takin an auto tranny from like the Legacy GT's
with the slapstick mode and put into an SVX? I think it would look pretty good in an svx.

[SVX-FF]

CONGRATS CHIKETKD!!!!!!!!

Welcome to the 4.11 auto club. It has some great exceleration with the new gears. I am glad to hear that you got it done.

Steve

[Chiketkd]

Thanks Steve! Question, you have svxfiles' cell # correct? He has an impreza diff and an SVX diff to do the R&P swap for me at his place. He's not quite sure if there will be an issue with the 'pre-load' of the gears if he starts tearing into the diffs to swap the 4.11 gears over...

If there is any advice you can give, please share...

-Chike

P.S. If you don't have his cell #, I can PM it to you. Thanks bud!
Originally posted by SVX-FF
CONGRATS CHIKETKD!!!!!!!!

Welcome to the 4.11 auto club. It has some great exceleration with the new gears. I am glad to hear that you got it done.

Steve

[Beldin]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Thanks Steve! Question, you have svxfiles' cell # correct? He has an impreza diff and an SVX diff to do the R&P swap for me at his place. He's not quite sure if there will be an issue with the 'pre-load' of the gears if he starts tearing into the diffs to swap the 4.11 gears over...

If there is any advice you can give, please share...

-Chike

P.S. If you don't have his cell #, I can PM it to you. Thanks bud!


We used an Impreza Diff. and all we did was change the ring. We left the pinion all itact and simple moved the ring from the Impreza and put it on the Limited Slip part of the original SVX and then put it all back in the Impreza Diff as it is exactly the same as the SVX one. That way you do not have to mess with the Pinion part of it at all. Very easy to do. And then the CV axles fit in perfectly. Hopefully that is what you were asking

[svxfiles]

I'm hoping to use the Impreza rear so that I wont have to get the new crush sleeve, pinion seal. Monday after work Walt, a Subaru mechanic since 1969 is brining the tool we need to remove the side plates. After that we will put the limited slip hub in the Impreza housing. This is the same thing we did with Nicks' 4.44 swap, the differance being the svx rear has bolt on side plates.
SVXRIDE, We took the alt out to snake the 2 foot 3/8 drive extention with the 12mm socket TAPED to the extention underneath the intake manifold. With the black rubber plug at the top of the bell housing on the passenger side removed, it was easier to remove the 4 bolts that attach the flex plate to the torque converter. Tom

[SSSVX]

good to see you back after your 4.11 swap...

and nice to hear of your reviews....update more... :D:D

[huck369]

Originally posted by Chiketkd


The 4.11 diff that I have is not from Legacy sedan but the same '96 Impreza Outback Sport that my trans came out of.

-Chike


Is this the tranny out of my old 96 Outback Sport?
Did you get it from Rufus?
Good to see parts of my old car living on in another Subie....and an SVX at that:D

[rufus]

That's the one, Huck :)

[huck369]

Originally posted by rufus
That's the one, Huck :)


Cool:cool:

[Chiketkd]

Huck, it's the one and the same! I guess I have your wife's ol' Outback trans alive in my SVX... :D

The trans is shifting great, but I may need to do a slight brake band adjustment which is not too uncommon for a trans that's been sitting around for a while. I get a little 'flare' on the 1-2 shift only...

-Chike
Originally posted by huck369
Is this the tranny out of my old 96 Outback Sport?
Did you get it from Rufus?
Good to see parts of my old car living on in another Subie....and an SVX at that:D

[Chiketkd]

Cool! Let me know how that works...

Is it possible to do what Beldin described w/o messing with the crush sleeve or pinion seal?

Thanks!

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
I'm hoping to use the Impreza rear so that I wont have to get the new crush sleeve, pinion seal. Monday after work Walt, a Subaru mechanic since 1969 is brining the tool we need to remove the side plates. After that we will put the limited slip hub in the Impreza housing. This is the same thing we did with Nicks' 4.44 swap, the differance being the svx rear has bolt on side plates.
SVXRIDE, We took the alt out to snake the 2 foot 3/8 drive extention with the 12mm socket TAPED to the extention underneath the intake manifold. With the black rubber plug at the top of the bell housing on the passenger side removed, it was easier to remove the 4 bolts that attach the flex plate to the torque converter. Tom

[SVXRide]

Originally posted by svxfiles
I'm hoping to use the Impreza rear so that I wont have to get the new crush sleeve, pinion seal. Monday after work Walt, a Subaru mechanic since 1969 is brining the tool we need to remove the side plates. After that we will put the limited slip hub in the Impreza housing. This is the same thing we did with Nicks' 4.44 swap, the differance being the svx rear has bolt on side plates.
SVXRIDE, We took the alt out to snake the 2 foot 3/8 drive extention with the 12mm socket TAPED to the extention underneath the intake manifold. With the black rubber plug at the top of the bell housing on the passenger side removed, it was easier to remove the 4 bolts that attach the flex plate to the torque converter. Tom

Tom,
Okay, now I've got the mental picture -- two foot extension makes more sense than a two foot breaker..:D
Can you take a picture of the "special tool" that Walt is going to use -- I'm curious as to exactly what it looks like.
Will the SVX's LS hub actually fit in the Impreza housing? Is this the same housing that was at Mike's house during the trans swap?
-Bill

[huck369]

If the Impreza housing was the smaller unit, I don't think you'll be able to swap out the internals...so you'll have to find a large housing 4.11 rear diff to make the swap...

[Chiketkd]

Beldin,

I was thinking about what you were saying and looked at the pics in SVX-FF's locker of his swap for better illustration...

(Correct me if I'm on the wrong track)
If we took the ring gears out of the SVX and Impreza diffs, there would be no issue with the preloads or crush sleeves, as the pinion gears are the only ones held under preload in the rear diff...

SVX Rear Pinion:
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/SVX-FF/18970.JPG

Therefore, since the pinion gears are the same in the SVX and Impreza diffs, the ring gears are the only ones that'll need to be swapped...

SVX LSD Diff (left) vs Impreza Diff (right)
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/SVX-FF/18969.JPG

Is the complexity of the ring swap very complicated or a straight forward process? :confused:

Thanks!

-Chike
Originally posted by Beldin
We used an Impreza Diff. and all we did was change the ring. We left the pinion all itact and simple moved the ring from the Impreza and put it on the Limited Slip part of the original SVX and then put it all back in the Impreza Diff as it is exactly the same as the SVX one. That way you do not have to mess with the Pinion part of it at all. Very easy to do. And then the CV axles fit in perfectly. Hopefully that is what you were asking

[SVXRide]

Chike,
There are shims on the side plates that hold the ring/LS assemby in place. I seem to remember that there was one shim on the right side of your original diff and 2 shims on the left side....
This should (?) also play into how the ring and pinion mate up....
-Bill

[SVX-FF]

Sorry I'm late to the party but I just got off work.
I had no problems with crush rings or spacers. I used the SVX housing so I did not have to modify the Impreza one. I just swapped over the Impreza ring onto the SVX LSD carrige. Took the Impreza pinion out with all the spacers and put it into the SVX housing. I used the same side caps with the origional spacers and reassembled it. Torqued all the bolts, checked for any slop, added fluid and then spanked it back into position.

Steve

[SVXRide]

Chike,
I uploaded a bunch of the pics I took at your "trans swap fest" - in my locker in the "Chike trans swap 7/23/04" folder. Take a look at the ring gear shot -- is there a gash in a couple of the teeth, or is it just a anomaly in the digital image? I just don't remember noticing it at Rufus' house...
-Bill

[SVX-FF]

Originally posted by SVXRide
Chike,
I uploaded a bunch of the pics I took at your "trans swap fest" - in my locker in the "Chike trans swap 7/23/04" folder. Take a look at the ring gear shot -- is there a gash in a couple of the teeth, or is it just a anomaly in the digital image? I just don't remember noticing it at Rufus' house...
-Bill

It looks like a shadow from the flash. Atleat for Chike I hope so:p

Steve

[svxfiles]

If you look in SVX-FF locker, the Impreza pinion has 11 teeth, and the svx pinion has 9. So the Impreza ring has about 45 teeth. The svx would have about 32 teeth on it's ring. When we remove the impreza side plates we can try the svx LSD hub with the Imp ring bolted to it. It probably won't fit as per SVX-FF's example, but I have to try. When that does not work, we will have to order the seal and crush sleeve for the bigger svx housing to use with both the ring and pinion from the Impreza. Tom

[Chiketkd]

Bill,

Thanks for the pics!!! Weird, but it does look like a gash in the gears to me as well...

I wonder what could have caused it? :confused:

-Chike
Originally posted by SVXRide
Take a look at the ring gear shot -- is there a gash in a couple of the teeth, or is it just a anomaly in the digital image? I just don't remember noticing it at Rufus' house...
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

Tom,

Just so that I'm understanding you correctly, is this what you're going to try:

Quote from SVX-FF: "I had no problems with crush rings or spacers. I used the SVX housing so I did not have to modify the Impreza one. I just swapped over the Impreza ring onto the SVX LSD carrige. Took the Impreza pinion out with all the spacers and put it into the SVX housing. I used the same side caps with the origional spacers and reassembled it. Torqued all the bolts, checked for any slop, added fluid and then spanked it back into position."

Thanks!

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
If you look in SVX-FF locker, the Impreza pinion has 11 teeth, and the svx pinion has 9. So the Impreza ring has about 45 teeth. The svx would have about 32 teeth on it's ring. When we remove the impreza side plates we can try the svx LSD hub with the Imp ring bolted to it. It probably won't fit as per SVX-FF's example, but I have to try. When that doe's not work, we will have to order the seal and crush sleeve for the bigger svx housing to use with both the ring and pinion from the Impreza. Tom

[SVX-FF]

Chike I just shot you a PM

Steve

[Chiketkd]

Thanks. Responded.

-Chike
Originally posted by SVX-FF
Chike I just shot you a PM

Steve

[SVXRide]

I think one of the keys here is that you have to have a matched ring and pinion set. The teeth are cut to mesh with one another and I think there'd be trouble if you tried to mix things up. Just my 2 cents...
-Bill

[SVXRide]

I think what Steve did with his swap will work as long as the inside dimensions on the two housings are the same (sounds like they are). This being the case, the shims, etc. would result in the same ring-pinion relationship within the SVX housing as they had in the Impreza housing.
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

What Steve did does sound like it would work. The Ring gears are different, but maybe the preload of the gears wouldn't be as big of an issue as previously thought...

It'll be interesting to see if the swap is that straight-forward.

-Chike
Originally posted by SVXRide
I think what Steve did with his swap will work as long as the inside dimensions on the two housings are the same (sounds like they are). This being the case, the shims, etc. would result in the same ring-pinion relationship within the SVX housing as they had in the Impreza housing.
-Bill

[SVXRide]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
What Steve did does sound like it would work. The Ring gears are different, but maybe the preload of the gears wouldn't be as big of an issue as previously thought...

It'll be interesting to see if the swap is that straight-forward.

-Chike


Chike,
If I read Steve's post correctly (and who knows, maybe I didn't....), he swapped the Impreza Ring and Pinion over into the SVX housing along with all the same shims,etc they had in the Impreza housing.
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

That's how I read Steve's post as well...

-Chike
Originally posted by SVXRide
Chike,
If I read Steve's post correctly (and who knows, maybe I didn't....), he swapped the Impreza Ring and Pinion over into the SVX housing along with all the same shims,etc they had in the Impreza housing.
-Bill

[svxfiles]

Walt dropped off the tool, an 8" long T-handled spanner, but the Impreza side plate (aluminum) is stuck to the rusted iron housing :mad: . Evan with the diff in a vice, and a foot long pipe on the tool, the side plates would not budge!!
So we set it on it's side and soaked the area with PB-Blaster, and we'll try again tomorrow :rolleyes:
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/boxer6/19671.jpg
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/boxer6/19672.jpg

[Chiketkd]

Holy cow! Those side plates must be rusted onto the housing pretty good. Thanks for everything Tom.

-Chike

[Subafreak]

Woah! You don't want to use that rearend! The R160 is laymo and will not like SVX power running to it, you know that right?

[Chiketkd]

R160??? What's so terrible about that diff? :confused:

-Chike
Originally posted by Subafreak
Woah! You don't want to use that rearend! The R160 is laymo and will not like SVX power running to it, you know that right?

[Subafreak]

I,ve heard it breaks in the 1.8L auto Iprezzas that they came in. I think it's the R160? Wait! What rearend does the STI have init? Either way the one with the screw in caps is weak.

[Chiketkd]

Interesting...

That Rear diff is out of a '96 Impreza Outback Sport with a 2.2L engine. I know it's that engine for sure, as Rufus swapped it into his white 'daily commuter' Imprezza.

I'll probably still swap it into my SVX, but may keep an eye out for a good deal on a stronger 4.11 diff in the future.

Thanks for the info.

-Chike
Originally posted by Subafreak
I,ve heard it breaks in the 1.8L auto Iprezzas that they came in. I think it's the R160? Wait! What rearend does the STI have init? Either way the one with the screw in caps is weak.

[Subafreak]

Yes actually I've seen them in a few Imprezzas but all autos and they are not really ment to handle high power. Look for older 90 to 94 Legacys most of them had 4:11s

[Chiketkd]

Thanks Jesse. If that diff is to rusty to use, I'll look into getting one of those older Legacy diffs. A junkyard would probably sell '90-'94 parts for next to nothing...

-Chike
Originally posted by Subafreak
Yes actually I've seen them in a few Imprezzas but all autos and they are not really ment to handle high power. Look for older 90 to 94 Legacys most of them had 4:11s

[Beldin]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Beldin,

I was thinking about what you were saying and looked at the pics in SVX-FF's locker of his swap for better illustration...

(Correct me if I'm on the wrong track)
If we took the ring gears out of the SVX and Impreza diffs, there would be no issue with the preloads or crush sleeves, as the pinion gears are the only ones held under preload in the rear diff...

SVX Rear Pinion:
Image removed.

Therefore, since the pinion gears are the same in the SVX and Impreza diffs, the ring gears are the only ones that'll need to be swapped...

SVX LSD Diff (left) vs Impreza Diff (right)
Image Removed

Is the complexity of the ring swap very complicated or a straight forward process? :confused:

Thanks!

-Chike


Ok I will try and explain this better. I am so bad about explaining stuff on forums. LOL

Here is exactly what I did and hopfeully that will make it easier. I wish I had taken pics.

I had the Original SVX diff and a 2002 RS Diff with the 411 gears.

The 2 diff were exactly the same. Exact same housing and bolt patterns and everything. The only difference was that the 2 bolts coming out the rear of the diff housing to bolt to the car were longer on the SVX diff so I had to use that back no matter what.

I removed the backs off them both.

I removed the sides off both. Both differentials had 2 shims in each side so I just kept them with their respective side.

I then had to pull the whole ring assembly out and it was kind of tricky but it did come out. So I had the SVX Ring and assembly with the Limited Slip. And I had the Imprezza Ring and Assembly. I also had 2 differentials with the pinion asembly still intact within the diffs.

I then took the ring off each assembly. I put the Imprexzza 411 ring onto the SVX Limited slip assembly. Then put that whole assemlby back into the Imprezza differential so all the gearing was 411.

I then put the sides back on inculding the 2 shims in each side.

Then I put the SVX back on the mprezza Diff so that it would perfectly mount to the car.

I then put the other ring back on the Imprezza assembly and back into the SVX diff and put the sideas back on. I don't know what to do with this yet but it is all back together just in case someone could use it.

I then mounted the 411 Diff in the car and lubed it up.

Hopefully that is much more understandable. It may be a little stupid sounding but it should get the point across.

[IggDawg]

I heard there was some lash adjustment that had to be done during a ring and pinion swap. Did you find it to be more or less a pull-swap-replace affair?

[SVXRide]

Originally posted by Subafreak
Yes actually I've seen them in a few Imprezzas but all autos and they are not really ment to handle high power. Look for older 90 to 94 Legacys most of them had 4:11s

Jesse,
Is a good "rule of thumb" here to make sure to go with a diff that has bolt on side covers (like the SVX's)? Also, did Subaru ever change the size of the Ring gear in their diffs?
-Bill

[Beldin]

Originally posted by IggDawg
I heard there was some lash adjustment that had to be done during a ring and pinion swap. Did you find it to be more or less a pull-swap-replace affair?

I am not sure if the pinion part does but I did not mess with that at all. So for me yess it was basically pull and swap. I guess we haven't driven it yet other than a few feet but it seemed to work fine them. We will be hopefully driving it tonight to see whats up.



Originally posted by SVXRide
Jesse,
Is a good "rule of thumb" here to make sure to go with a diff that has bolt on side covers (like the SVX's)? Also, did Subaru ever change the size of the Ring gear in their diffs?
-Bill

The 2002 RS diff and the 1992 SVX diff had the exact same size ring.

[svxfiles]

OK, after soaking the left side of thje imp diff over night with PB-Blaster it was still totally stuck. So I heated the iron collar cherry red with an oxy/acetylene cutting torch ( after removing the seal ). Then with a 2 foot bar on one side, and a 1 foot bar on the other it unscrewed with a lot of difficulty.
We tried to heat and remove the righr side to no avail.:( When it cools enough, I'll soak it and let sit overnight, try again tomorrow. Tom

[Beldin]

Ahhh the PB Blaster. Used a couple cans of that in the last few weeks. LMAO

[SVX-FF]

SVXfiles,

If you have a tourch and are not going to reuse the Imprexa diff, tourch the cast iron to red hot then pure water onto the aluminium to cool it down and then try it.
It has worked for me in the past.

Steve

[svxfiles]

After Jesse's update/new info on the screw in side plate differentials weakness, the only parts ot that rear end we will use are the ring gear, and the pinion:D
FF , on the second side, right side it was hot enough to melt the aluminum shavings sitting on the screw out side plate.
I'd rather mess with it 5 times than mix cold water and molten metal.
Boys and girls, do not try this at home.

[Chiketkd]

Trust me, I'll leave that for the professionals! :eek:

Thanks for the update! :)

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
Boys and girls, do not try this at home.

[SVX-FF]

Originally posted by svxfiles
After Jesse's update/new info on the screw in side plate differentials weakness, the only parts ot that rear end we will use are the ring gear, and the pinion:D
FF , on the second side, right side it was hot enough to melt the aluminum shavings sitting on the screw out side plate.
I'd rather mess with it 5 times than mix cold water and molten metal.
Boys and girls, do not try this at home.

That's cool!:D
It is you doing it and not me. I can respect that. I know it must be a bi@#h in all. Good call on keeping a level head.

Steve

[Chiketkd]

So I went to Autozone and borrowed some tools during my lunch break and tightened up the brake band adjuster at the top of my new trans. The flare from the 1-2 shift is gone and she shifts crisply in all gears. Haven't taken it up to redline in a while, but maybe I'll give it a try on my way home this evening.

Those members that have met me know I have long and slender arms. :D I was able to do this adjustment w/o removing anything - just wiggled my arm in there loosened the lock nut with a 17mm, tightened the adjuster with a 7mm and then tightened the lock nut back. Took ~5 minutes and I was on my way... :)

-Chike

[SVXRide]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
So I went to Autozone and borrowed some tools during my lunch break and tightened up the brake band adjuster at the top of my new trans. The flare from the 1-2 shift is gone and she shifts crisply in all gears. Haven't taken it up to redline in a while, but maybe I'll give it a try on my way home this evening.

Those members that have met me know I have long and slender arms. :D I was able to do this adjustment w/o removing anything - just wiggled my arm in there loosened the lock nut with a 17mm, tightened the adjuster with a 7mm and then tightened the lock nut back. Took ~5 minutes and I was on my way... :)

-Chike

Chike,
Did you just "snug" the adjuster down (clockwise) and then tighten the lock nut?
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

I turned the adjuster ~180* (half turn), then drove the car a little and liked the results. I saw the post about tightening it completely and then backing off 3 turns, but I preferred the trial method. Seems like I got it right the first time...

My brake band wasn't slipping a lot on the 1-2 shift, so I knew it needed to be 'snugged' just a little.

-Chike

Originally posted by SVXRide
Chike,
Did you just "snug" the adjuster down (clockwise) and then tighten the lock nut?
-Bill

[svxfiles]

Chike, Thank you for VOLUNTEERING to adjust Diana's, Nick's and Dave's transmission bands.:D :D :D That is so nice of you. The last one I did was a painful, horrible two hour job!!! Not so thin Tom.:rolleyes:

[svxfiles]

PS; I just now got the second plate off, between the heat and the PB-Blaster it broke loose totay with just the 2 foot bar. More later.

[svxfiles]

Now the bad news, THIS 4.11 ring and pinion from the Impreza WILL NOT FIT the svx limited slip hub. See pix:
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/svxfiles/19740.jpg
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/svxfiles/19741.jpg
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/svxfiles/19742.jpg
Tomorrow I'll call around and see if there are any "bolt on side plate" 4.11s.
Jesse, you were right, this imp rear is downright dainty.
SVX-FF, What year rear end did you use, these are not compatable.

[Subafreak]

Wow! That is cute. I've never actually seen them side by side but now I know.:D Just look for a 90 to 94 Legacy (usually wagons) they should have the 4:11s in them. Also make sure the new rear end you get is not to corroded becouse the aluminum plates can break and the bolts might break off in the side covers or the rear cover. But if you do get a good one you won't have to mess with the pinion preload and depth if yuo just use the Legacy housing, but be preparedto do a little case grinding to clear the LSD diff. I had to do this when I did Alacritys car, no big deal just stuff some rags over the pinion and bearing when you do it.

[Chiketkd]

Hey no problem. Diana's, Nick's and Dave's cars should take me about 15-20 minutes total... ;)

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
Chike, Thank you for VOLUNTEERING to adjust Diana's, Nick's and Dave's transmission bands.:D :D :D That is so nice of you. The last one I did was a painful, horrible two hour job!!! Not so thin Tom.:rolleyes:

[Chiketkd]

Hey Tom, following Jesse's advice, see what prices you can find on a 90-94 Legacy rear diff. It should be reasonably priced (10+ yr old part) and if it'll work, I'll be a happy camper! :)

I think SVX-FF used an '02 Impreza Diff...

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
Tomorrow I'll call around and see if there are any "bolt on side plate" 4.11s.

[svxfiles]

You are certainly taking the rear news better than some people would.:confused:
call me tomorrow for an update. I'm at work from 9-6 or so.

[Chiketkd]

I try not to let the little things get me down.

I get off work around 5:30pm and I can try you on your cell then.

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
You are certainly taking the rear news better than some people would.:confused:
call me tomorrow for an update. I'm at work from 9-6 or so.

[SVXRide]

Chike,
and my car would add another 5 minutes?:D
-Bill (seriously considering suggesting that Chike add "Brake Band Guru" to his signature...)

[Chiketkd]

No problem. How severe is the shift flare in your car?

-Chike
Originally posted by SVXRide
Chike,
and my car would add another 5 minutes?:D
-Bill (seriously considering suggesting that Chike add "Brake Band Guru" to his signature...)

[Chiketkd]

I knew my lean build would come in useful someday...
Originally posted by SVXRide
-Bill (seriously considering suggesting that Chike add "Brake Band Guru" to his signature...)

[SVXRide]

the flare is still manageable - only 3 to 4.
how hard was it to break the lock nut loose?
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

The lock nut is on there relatively tight. The hard part is getting enough room to maneuver your wrench. I just did one half turn on the lock nut towards the driver's side, 'snugged' up the adjuster a half turn or so, and then then tightened the lock nut back.

It's a real pain to reach in and maneuver, but I didn't even have to remove the plactic H-6 engine cover. I just unplugged the battery as a safety precaution, since my hand was going to be brushing up against the starter... ;)

-Chike

P.S. I checked out my shifting this morning, and the flare is completely gone. Redlined 1st and 2nd...
Originally posted by SVXRide
the flare is still manageable - only 3 to 4.
how hard was it to break the lock nut loose?
-Bill

[SVX-FF]

Chike I used the rear 4.11 rear out of a 96 2.2L Impreza. The rears that have the bolt on sides are the same size ring/pinion set up. My rear cost $200, but only had 30,000 on it.
Good luck.

Steve

[Chiketkd]

Thanks Steve. I spoke with Tom (svxfiles) tonight and it looks pretty promising to locate a 4.11 diff out of a '90-'94 Legacy. I'll keep you guys posted of my progress... :)

-Chike
Originally posted by SVX-FF
Chike I used the rear 4.11 rear out of a 96 2.2L Impreza. The rears that have the bolt on sides are the same size ring/pinion set up. My rear cost $200, but only had 30,000 on it.
Good luck.

Steve

[svxfiles]

It seams tha a 90-94 legacy 5 SPEED is an appropriat rear doner for the 4.11 swap. I was under a 92 legacy 5 speed awd sedan tonight and it had the bolt on side plates, and the right ratio for this swap. ( though I really like the 4.44s:) ) It has the stub axels, and it's not limited slip, but the svx L/S hub should fix both those problems. Tom

[Chiketkd]

Thanks a bunch Tom. From what Porter mentioned in an older post, the 4.11 rear diff from either a 4EAT or 5MT would work as they're identical. I really appreciate your help - you and Rufus have both been invaluable in this swap! :)

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
It seams tha a 90-94 legacy 5 SPEED is an appropriat rear doner for the 4.11 swap. I was under a 92 legacy 5 speed awd sedan tonight and it had the bolt on side plates, and the right ratio for this swap. ( though I really like the 4.44s:) ) It has the stub axels, and it's not limited slip, but the svx L/S hub should fix both those problems. Tom

[Beldin]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
I think SVX-FF used an '02 Impreza Diff...

-Chike


Yeah we used a '02 Impezza diff and it works quite well. Drives well and the swap should be done tomorrowish. Hope to get it inspected and on the road............

[SVX-FF]

Hey Chike, what do you think about starting a official 4.11 club. After all the attention that has beed started it might be cool.
We could even allow those 5MTer's too. :D

Steve

[svxfiles]

A 4.44 club would be 1.0802919 times MORE cool.:D

[SVX-FF]

Originally posted by svxfiles
A 4.44 club would be 1.0802919 times MORE cool.:D

I do not get it:confused:

Steve














Just kiddin:D

[Chiketkd]

The 4.11 Club name sounds way cool! I like it... :)

-Chike
Originally posted by SVX-FF
Hey Chike, what do you think about starting a official 4.11 club. After all the attention that has beed started it might be cool.
We could even allow those 5MTer's too. :D

Steve

[Chiketkd]

Just went through another tank with a 50/50 mix of city & highway driving.

341 miles on 16.38 gal = 20.82 mpg

Not too shabby at all! :)

-Chike

[svxfiles]

On the 4.44 we got 318 miles on 15.8 gal or 20.1266 mpg, no real highway and lots of WOT! :D

[huck369]

Can I be in your super cool 4.11 club?:rolleyes: ....as I've had 4.11's in mine for about 3 years now.....hehe


whats the secret handshake......?

[SVX-FF]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Just went through another tank with a 50/50 mix of city & highway driving.

341 miles on 16.38 gal = 20.82 mpg

Not too shabby at all! :)

-Chike

I must need to chang my plugs or something. I'm only getting about 18mpg on my 4.11 set up.

Steve

[SVX-FF]

Originally posted by huck369
Can I be in your super cool 4.11 club?:rolleyes: ....as I've had 4.11's in mine for about 3 years now.....hehe


whats the secret handshake......?

Huck if you have had a 4.11 for 3 years then you get be the Prez.

So what is your secret handshake???:D

Steve

[SVX-FF]

Hey Huck were did you get the cool logo (http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/huck369/6193.jpg) from. I would like one.

Steve

[Chiketkd]

Very likely. Before I swapped in new plugs (when I still had the stock 3.55's) I was getting ~19-20mpg in mixed city/highway - afterwards it shot up to 23mpg.

Personally, 21mpg in mixed city/highway and 25 mpg all highway are numbers I can live with. Compared to my former Lightning and 300ZX TT, this car is still the most fuel effecient vehicle I've owned!!! :)

-Chike
Originally posted by SVX-FF
I must need to chang my plugs or something. I'm only getting about 18mpg on my 4.11 set up.

Steve

[Chiketkd]

I second that! Huck for Prez!!! :D

-Chike
Originally posted by SVX-FF
Huck if you have had a 4.11 for 3 years then you get be the Prez.

So what is your secret handshake???:D

Steve

[SVX-FF]

Thanks Chike I'll change my plugs real soon.

Steve

[huck369]

Originally posted by SVX-FF


Huck if you have had a 4.11 for 3 years then you get be the Prez.

So what is your secret handshake???:D

Steve


Well....it's a secret, so if I show you....I'd have to kill you....:D :D

Will have to show you at a meet sometime...hehe


And the cool logo....I stole that pic from somebody elses locker....can't remember whose...:confused:

And if you're getting really bad milage, you probably need to change your O2 sensors...

Later, my 4.11 brothers.....

[SVX-FF]

Thanks for the info Mr. Pesident. :D
They are on my $500.00 tune up list.

Steve

[Subafreak]

Damn! I gots 3.90's, no cool club for me:(


Hmm? I got 320miles to 16gals =20MPG And that was eaither WOT or in traffic moving 1inch every 5sec.:mad: Not to bad.:confused:

[huck369]

Originally posted by Subafreak
Damn! I gots 3.90's, no cool club for me:(


Hmm? I got 320miles to 16gals =20MPG And that was eaither WOT or in traffic moving 1inch every 5sec.:mad: Not to bad.:confused:


Sorry Subafreak...guess you'll have to start a 3.90 club......:D :D :D

[Chiketkd]

:D :D :D

-Chike
Originally posted by huck369
Sorry Subafreak...guess you'll have to start a 3.90 club......:D :D :D

[huck369]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
:D :D :D

-Chike



But Hey...he can be Prez of the 3.90 Club.....;)

[svxfiles]

Even as Prez you're still off 1.1384615 :( :D

[Chiketkd]

Hey can't we all get along? :p

If we had a 4.11 club there would only be 3 members and that would be kinda lonesome. :( Include the 4.44 guys and the number would grow by 2-3 more (svxfiles, boxer6 & needforspeed). I propose we call the club the 'shorter geared SVX club' so as to include the 3.90 people as well... :)

This way, we'll have an exclusive group of members who could blow the doors off of a stock 3.55 or 3.70 geared SVX! ;) :D

-Chike

[huck369]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Hey can't we all get along? :p

If we had a 4.11 club there would only be 3 members and that would be kinda lonesome. :( Include the 4.44 guys and the number would grow by 2-3 more (svxfiles, boxer6 & needforspeed). I propose we call the club the 'shorter geared SVX club' so as to include the 3.90 people as well... :)

This way, we'll have an exclusive group of members who could blow the doors off of a stock 3.55 or 3.70 geared SVX! ;) :D

-Chike



That's fine by me.....but am I still the Prez?.......hehe:D :D :D

I think Subafreak is the only 3.90 SVX out there...at least that I kknow of....anyone else have a 3.90 SVX?

[Chiketkd]

Since you've had 4.11 gears for over 3yrs, you should definitely be Prez! :p ;)

I'll be the Chief of 4EAT Brake Band Adjustments... :D

-Chike
Originally posted by huck369
but am I still the Prez?.......hehe:D :D

[svxfiles]

A group club is fine, BUT just not THAT name, How about, The Taller Numerically Geared Club... Or The Guys With The Augmented Third Members!. :D
I'm NOT compensating!!!:eek:

[SVXRide]

Originally posted by svxfiles
A group club is fine, BUT just not THAT name, How about, The Taller Numerically Geared Club... Or The Guys With The Augmented Third Members!.
I'm NOT compensating!!!


:D :D :p

Tom - any progress with completing the rear diff R&P swap for Chike? I'm thinking it would be nice to have a "How To" for this swap with the recommended 4:11 open diffs to use (to prevent people trying to use the non-bolt on side plate diffs)
-Bill

[huck369]

Originally posted by SVXRide



:D :D :p

Tom - any progress with completing the rear diff R&P swap for Chike? I'm thinking it would be nice to have a "How To" for this swap with the recommended 4:11 open diffs to use (to prevent people trying to use the non-bolt on side plate diffs)
-Bill

Just added a revision to my write up to let people know that they need a rear diff with bolt in side plates...hopefully save a few future swapers some trouble...

[mbtoloczko]

Originally posted by huck369

....anyone else have a 3.90 SVX?

me = VP? :-)))

[AppStateSVX]

I don't know if this has been asked before, but does the "Power" mode light still work if you swap witha different tranny?

[Chiketkd]

I have an OBDII SVX and there is no power mode light. If I remember correctly, SVX-FF's power light still worked after the swap.

One thing I'll add, my 'manual mode' switch still works flawlessly, as well as my over-revving safety upshift.

-Chike
Originally posted by MidnightBlack92
I don't know if this has been asked before, but does the "Power" mode light still work if you swap witha different tranny?

[huck369]

The OBDI Legacys, and Impreza, (and even the XT6's for that mater) all had "Power Lights with the 4EAT, so it should still work

[AppStateSVX]

Cool, that was one of those things in the back of my mind that I just didn't know about. :D

[svxfiles]

I'm trying to find a rear end w/4.11s. I should have one this week.
In tracking it down I found a ROUGH whole 91 legacy sedan w/190k for $250. Don't know if it runs:confused: .
I'm waiting for 2 junkyards to call me back now. It will probably run $50-$75.
Once it's here, it will take less than 2 hours to swap out the LSD.
With any luck Chike will be awd this weekend.:D Tom

[Chiketkd]

Thanks for the update Tom. I can't wait to get my awd back again. I've been 'easy' on the throttle in 1st gear as I don't want to needlessly spin my front tires and wear them down more than the rears...

I'm excited! :cool:

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
I'm trying to find a rear end w/4.11s. I should have one this week.
In tracking it down I found a ROUGH whole 91 legacy sedan w/190k for $250. Don't know if it runs:confused: .
I'm waiting for 2 junkyards to call me back now. It will probably run $50-$75.
Once it's here, it will take less than 2 hours to swap out the LSD.
With any luck Chike will be awd this weekend.:D Tom

[Chiketkd]

I went out and bought a set of cheap $7 wrenches from WalMart this weekend and re-adjusted my brake band adjuster to the firmest setting possible. My shifts are now super crisp and firm, and I'm loving it! :)

Because I now have the tools (and wouldn't need to go to my local parts store), I can do my 'world famous' 5 minute brake band adjustment anywhere we meet up... (so long as the engine is cool ;) )

-Chike

[tancred]

What the hell is a brake band?

[Chiketkd]

Here's a pic from Mr. Pocket's Locker:

http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Mr._Pockets/6279.jpg

In the pic, you'll see two things that stick out at the top of the trans, the larger of the two is the brake band adjuster. It has a 17mm lock nut at the base and a 7mm adjuster on top of it.

It is found just behind the firewall on the driver's side of the car. Very hard to get to, but when adjusted, can remove the 'flare' from shifts.

-Chike
Originally posted by tancred
What the hell is a brake band?

[tancred]

SUPER!

[huck369]

BUT...too tight will burn up the bands.....

[Chiketkd]

I didn't know that...

One thing though, I added 20oz of Lucas ATF additive from Advance Auto Parts this afternoon. It's supposed to lower the operating temps in the trans and prevent slippage - I did it as insurance since I was planning on drag racing/ AutoXing my SVX in the near future. I guess I'll see how things turn out in the coming months...

-Chike
Originally posted by huck369
BUT...too tight will burn up the bands.....

[svxfiles]

And, if you back out the 7mm adjuster too much the inner band falls loose and you have to completely disassemble the transmission to fix it. So be very careful not to back it off more than, like 1 half turn.

[Chiketkd]

Maybe I'll back it off a 1/4 turn or so, but I want the firmest, quickest shifts possible...

Thanks! :)

-Chike

P.S. Another thing I've done to make my shifts as quick and firm as possible is to disconnect the trans resistor. This coupled with the Lucas oil additive, should increase the life of my trans and brake band... :)
Originally posted by svxfiles
And, if you back out the 7mm adjuster too much the inner band falls loose and you have to completely disassemble the transmission to fix it. So be very careful not to back it off more than, like 1 half turn.

[svxfiles]

Chike, I just now got off the phone with the wrecking yard, he tells me he has a 91 with the correct side plates, he said the 95-96 had different side plates. He's shipping me the 91 TOMORROW, Friday, for $50.00 plus tax! I gots my tools on my desk!! Tom

[Chiketkd]

Awesome! Thanks a million Tom.

This weekend, may not work for me to drive out to WV, but let me know what day next weekend would be best for you, Di and the boys... :)

AWD here I come!

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
Chike, I just now got off the phone with the wrecking yard, he tells me he has a 91 with the correct side plates, he said the 95-96 had different side plates. He's shipping me the 91 TOMORROW, Friday, for $50.00 plus tax! I gots my tools on my desk!! Tom

[Chiketkd]

Well, I've had the 4.11 trans in my car now for almost 2 weeks and I'm just lovin' the improved acceleration! :cool: Took a twisty two lane road to work this morning, and got stuck behind a taxi driving about 10mph under the speed limit. :rolleyes: As soon as I was in a passing zone, I floored the gas pedal, the trans downshifted to 2nd and I passed him in a blur!

One interesting thing, is that during the trans swap, my throttle cables were loosened somehow, and I didn't realize this until yesterday, when I tightened them up again. Previously, my trans shifted at 6500rpms, which was fine, but now, the shifts are at the fuel cut of 6750rpms!!! Every time I get on the the gas now, it feels like an endless rush of torque right to redline...

This car feels much, much faster and I can only begin to imagine how much cooler boxer6's SVX with 4.44 gears must feel! :cool:

-Chike

[svxfiles]

How about,1.0802919 times as cool?:D







This is still very very funny to me, whats a life?

[Chiketkd]

I can agree with that figure! :D

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
How about,1.0802919 times as cool?:D

[svxfiles]

Actually gearing is only a part of the whole picture. A big part, but, lets say your 90,000 mile engine pulls strongly to 6750 rpm, and his, with 172,000 miles peters outat 6000 rpm, you will have the faster car.

[Chiketkd]

Very true. Another factor to consider is weight as Nick has an LSi with a full leather interior w/ sunroof and I have the base L model with the cloth and no sunroof. Weight difference between the two trim levels is ~100lbs...

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
Actually gearing is only a part of the whole picture. A big part, but, lets say your 90,000 mile engine pulls strongly to 6750 rpm, and his, with 172,000 miles peters outat 6000 rpm, you will have the faster car.

[svxfiles]

And if I drive it instead of Nick thats another hundred pounds:eek:



Whats a salad?

[Chiketkd]

:D :D :D
Originally posted by svxfiles
And if I drive it instead of Nick thats another hundred pounds:eek:

[PatrickB]

i need 4.44 gears :D

[Chiketkd]

Read this thread in its entirety. The only direct 4.44 plug-n-play trans will be one from a '96 Legacy Outback. You'll need the rear diff from the car as well...

Several 4.44's (http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=18005)

-Chike
Originally posted by PatrickB
i need 4.44 gears :D

[PatrickB]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Read this thread in its entirety. The only direct 4.44 plug-n-play trans will be one from a '96 Legacy Outback. You'll need the rear diff from the car as well...

Several 4.44's (http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/showthread.php?s=&threadid=18005)

-Chike


hehe i was just being silly. i like the 4.11 gears just fine. if i ever pull the tranny I will put something thats stout as a rock in it. something that will hold my future HP numbers.

[Chiketkd]

What'll be truly superb would be a 5MT w/ 4.44 gears! That SVX would haul!!! :D

-Chike
Originally posted by PatrickB
hehe i was just being silly. i like the 4.11 gears just fine. if i ever pull the tranny I will put something thats stout as a rock in it. something that will hold my future HP numbers.

[svxfiles]

It's a good thing you're not coming up this weekend Chike. The rear just got here and the silver tag on the back says3.90 :rolleyes: So I sent it back. I'll try again. Tom

[PatrickB]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
What'll be truly superb would be a 5MT w/ 4.44 gears! That SVX would haul!!! :D

-Chike


i will wait for this trannies demise before i upgrade hehe i bet 4.44 would be fun! u all know i have never drove another svx besides mine? so i have no clue what a stock one is like.

[Chiketkd]

I guess the guy messed up. I'm sure the right one will eventually be located... :D

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
It's a good thing you're not coming up this weekend Chike. The rear just got here ant the silver tag on the back says3.90 :rolleyes: So I sent it back. I'll try again. Tom

[Chiketkd]

Since you have a 5MT with 4.11 gears, you're not missing much... :D Stock SVX's don't feel incredibly fast, but are very smooth, quiet highway cruisers. ;)

-Chike
Originally posted by PatrickB
u all know i have never drove another svx besides mine? so i have no clue what a stock one is like.

[PatrickB]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Since you have a 5MT with 4.11 gears, you're not missing much... :D Stock SVX's don't feel incredibly fast, but are very smooth, quiet highway cruisers. ;)

-Chike


i would imagine i am addicted. i think my g/f needs an automatic. I will keep an eye out for one in good shape. She loves the red like yours.:cool:

[Chiketkd]

Thanks! The Brilliant Red on my '96 really lights my fire... Your g/f has good taste... ;)

http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/19847s.jpg

-Chike

P.S. What are the specs on your SVX? I didn't see anything in your profile or locker? Year, color, mods (besides the 5spd)? Also, when are you going to the 1/8th mile track?
Originally posted by PatrickB
She loves the red like yours.:cool:

[PatrickB]

i purchased astrolbody's car. its a 94 black i do belive the model is LSL (all options) 5sp legacy swap 4.11 gears a cone filter in the fender it nd a short shifter. it runs out real well and motor pulls hard. It has a thermostat/water pump issue so i don't plan on taking it to the track this weekend. I wish I could spend some time in it but my dad is coming from NC and Huck from the board is also going to be in town. I would like to meet him as well.

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Thanks! The Brilliant Red on my '96 really lights my fire... Your g/f has good taste... ;)

http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/19847s.jpg

-Chike

P.S. What are the specs on your SVX? I didn't see anything in your profile or locker? Year, color, mods (besides the 5spd)? Also, when are you going to the 1/8th mile track?

[Chiketkd]

Nice! Actually, Astralbody's car is an LSi model - leather interior w/ sunroof...

LSi models weigh 3580lbs, so you'll definitely help your times by stripping a few things off of the car.

Take some pics of the car and upload them to your locker when you get the chance. Also, good luck fixing that thermostat/ water pump issue.

-Chike
Originally posted by PatrickB
i purchased astrolbody's car. its a 94 black i do belive the model is LSL (all options) 5sp legacy swap 4.11 gears a cone filter in the fender it nd a short shifter. it runs out real well and motor pulls hard. It has a thermostat/water pump issue so i don't plan on taking it to the track this weekend. I wish I could spend some time in it but my dad is coming from NC and Huck from the board is also going to be in town. I would like to meet him as well.

[PatrickB]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Nice! Actually, Astralbody's car is an LSi model - leather interior w/ sunroof...

LSi models weigh 3580lbs, so you'll definitely help your times by stripping a few things off of the car.

Take some pics of the car and upload them to your locker when you get the chance. Also, good luck fixing that thermostat/ water pump issue.

-Chike


i don't plan on removing anything from the car if i can't make the box6 put down power I will hang up the tool belt. i think a 150shot direct port is in order. i will beef any part up that needs to be beefed up before i strip anything off the car. i do enjoy its comfy quiet ride.

[Chiketkd]

Well the 5spd conversion shaves ~100lbs off of that stock LSi weight figure just for starters... So your car probably weighs in the same ballpark as mine - 3490lbs (I weighed my base awd L model on the scale at my local dump a couple months back).

I wouldn't just get a 150 shot of NOS unless you get the tuned Stage 2 kit from ECUTune. A shot of that magnitude can damage an engine in a hurry... :eek:

I'd start with the basics first - exhaust, Stage 1 chip, etc. Then turn to the NOS!!! :)

-Chike
Originally posted by PatrickB
i don't plan on removing anything from the car if i can't make the box6 put down power I will hang up the tool belt. i think a 150shot direct port is in order. i will beef any part up that needs to be beefed up before i strip anything off the car. i do enjoy its comfy quiet ride.

[PatrickB]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Well the 5spd conversion shaves ~100lbs off of that stock LSi weight figure just for starters... So your car probably weighs in the same ballpark as mine - 3490lbs (I weighed my base awd L model on the scale at my local dump a couple months back).

I wouldn't just get a 150 shot of NOS unless you get the tuned Stage 2 kit from ECUTune. A shot of that magnitude can damage an engine in a hurry... :eek:

I'd start with the basics first - exhaust, Stage 1 chip, etc. Then turn to the NOS!!! :)

-Chike



that was the plan i mayskip the stage 1 andget the stage 2 and use a wet kit i have laying around. whats the best exhaust. i kinda just planned on having a buddy put a custom on. however i want a good sound

[Chiketkd]

If you're going to do a custom exhaust, get a camaro muffler from either Magnaflow or Flowmaster (1 pipe in, 2 out). Other than that, use high flow cats to improve exhaust flow.

The sound will be awesome! Matt (Immortal_Suby) and Keith (civic_slayer) both have flowmasters and they're happy with the results. I've listened to Keith's over the phone and it does sound awesome...kinda Porsche-911-esque!! :)

-Chike
Originally posted by PatrickB
whats the best exhaust. i kinda just planned on having a buddy put a custom on. however i want a good sound

[boxer6]

Hey,

This may make a better thead than a post, but what's the best or your favorite mod you ever put on your svx? As svxfiles clearly stated, I already have 4.44 gears so I don't need any tranny advice. So maybe I can take your ideas and put them on my "things to do to my svx" list. I hope I can get some good replies!

Nick

[Chiketkd]

Nick,

I'd start small and get bigger. I've started off with the 4.11 gears and a K&N panel filter first along with the removal of the stock resonators.

From there I'm thinking of the ECUTune chip upgrade once it's available for our OBDII SVX's... I'd also want to add a cat back exhaust around this time with a high flow cat, along with light weight 16" wheels and tires.

Down the road, an underdrive pulley is a possibility along with those phenolic spacers.

-Chike
Originally posted by boxer6
Hey,

This may make a better thead than a post, but what's the best or your favorite mod you ever put on your svx? As svxfiles clearly stated, I already have 4.44 gears so I don't need any tranny advice. So maybe I can take your ideas and put them on my "things to do to my svx" list. I hope I can get some good replies!

Nick

[Subafreak]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
Well the 5spd conversion shaves ~100lbs off of that stock LSi weight figure just for starters... So your car probably weighs in the same ballpark as mine - 3490lbs (I weighed my base awd L model on the scale at my local dump a couple months back).

I wouldn't just get a 150 shot of NOS unless you get the tuned Stage 2 kit from ECUTune. A shot of that magnitude can damage an engine in a hurry... :eek:

I'd start with the basics first - exhaust, Stage 1 chip, etc. Then turn to the NOS!!! :)

-Chike



Was that weight with you in the car? If not, then my car IS pretty light at 3,263lbs:cool: I'm betting with the rest of the diet plan I can have this thing down to 3,000lbs and still have a fullish interior and AC.;)

[mbtoloczko]

My L AWD 5MT weighs 3390 lbs w/ 1/2 tank of gas and w/o me in it. About the same curb weight as a Evo 8 and an STi

[Chiketkd]

My L weighed 3490lbs w/ a 1/2 tank of gas w/o me in it. I have since removed a couple of things from my car - intake & exhaust resonators, a heat shield above my secondary cat, the trans resistor, etc. - so my car probably weighs ~15-20lbs lighter than that now. I'll probably weigh it again before going to the track in September...

-Chike
Originally posted by Subafreak
Was that weight with you in the car?

[Chiketkd]

Filled up about 5 miles after my low fuel light came on - did my usual 50/50 city & highway driving this week. I got:

334.7 miles on 15.798 gal = 21.2 mpg

-Chike

[svxfiles]

3:00 Monday, 8-9-04, I now have the doner differential, 4.111 ratio tag, 5 bolt side plates. Call me at work. Tom
301-689-9890

[Chiketkd]

Cool. I'll give you a call in a little bit Tom.

-Chike

[Chiketkd]

Thanks Tom! See you Saturday around 1pm...

-Chike

[Earthworm]

Originally posted by huck369
I think Subafreak is the only 3.90 SVX out there...at least that I kknow of....anyone else have a 3.90 SVX? You're forgetting anyone who is using a WRX tranny in their SVX...like myself and GreenMarineSVX.

What I've noticed with the swap is that my mileage has stabilized. My city mileage has noticably improved and highway mileage is about the same.

The urge-to-play factor has gone through the roof though.

[Chiketkd]

The same can be said for the 4EAT guys with the 4.11 and 4.44 gears! The fun factor is just insane... :D :D :D

-Chike
Originally posted by Earthworm
The urge-to-play factor has gone through the roof though.

[Chiketkd]

Filled up after using ~ 2/3 of a tank as I'm going to Tom's (svxfiles) place tomorrow to swap in the 4.11 rear diff. Did about 70% city driving this week...

234 miles on 11.614 gal = 20.15 mpg

I'll be doing about 95%+ highway driving up to West VA tomorrow, so it'll be interesting to see if I'll beat the ~25mpg from my last highway trip.

-Chike

[SVXRide]

Chike,
Remember to post pics of the donor diff and the actual installation! Just think, you're almost a 100% 4:11 SVX!
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

I need to start by thanking Tom (svxfiles), Diana (Green_eyed_lady) and Nick (boxer6) for their help today.

Tom has been especially tireless in his efforts over the last 2 weeks in locating a suitable donor 4.11 diff as well as installing the SVX limited slip hub onto the Ring gear prior to my arrival (after grinding down the inside of the casing).

The swap was relatively straight-forward, and to access the diff, we removed the exhaust from behind the secondary cat, disconnected the driveshaft and then the diff cross-member. The differential was then lowered slowly, as the two rear axles were popped out.

The donor 4.11 rear diff came from a '91 Legacy w/ 66K miles, and was in great shape! Tom had the donor diff ready to go with the ring gears coated in grease to ensure that everything was well lubed. The R&P gears spun as smooth as silk when they were turned...

Inside - Finished Legacy Diff
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/20093.jpg

Prior to installing the 4.11 diff, we had to switch the flange that connected the rear diff to the driveshaft, as the Legacy's was slightly smaller and wouldn't have worked...

SVX vs Legacy Driveshaft hub
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/20090.jpg

Once that switch was made and synthetic gear oil added, the new diff was installed, the axles popped on and everything else re-connected...

Installed 4.11 Diff
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/20092.jpg

Driveshaft Reconnected
http://www.subaru-svx.net/photos/files/Chiketkd/20086.jpg

When we were done, Diana had the honors of starting 'er up, putting it in gear, while Tom and I watched all four wheels spinning! :)

Tom then had me take the car for an easy 10 minute spin during which the car performed flawlessly. On my return, we put the car on the lift again, drained the rear diff (to wash out any metallic bits left back after the grinding) and filled it up again with new gear oil...

My two biggest highlights of the day were driving both Nick's '96 LSi w/ Outback 4.44 gears and well as Tom's tuned '92 LS-L with a custom exhaust. Both were outstanding rides! :)

Full pics are in my locker under '4.11 Swap'.

-Chike

[Chiketkd]

The ride home was pretty uneventful and I took it easy driving between 75-80mph on the interstate, with one brief run to 90mph. :D At no point during the drive did I ever hear any weird noises or sounds coming from the car. She was rock solid!

It felt pretty cool having awd again! When I got off the interstate by my house and came to a stop by an intersection covered in gravel, I could feel the back wheels really 'pushing' when I drove off...

I filled up by my house and got the following fuel economy numbers for my trip:

426.4 miles on 17.26 gal = 24.7 mpg

My trip ended up being about 85% highway driving as I was stopped for ~25 minutes in a small West VA town due to a funeral procession and drove through two towns with 25mph speed limits...

-Chike

[SVXRide]

Chike,
Congrats on completing your quest for 4:11!!
Tom, Diana, and their "band" are very special members of the "SVX family" for sure!
It will be interesting to see how your gas mileage compares now that you're truly driving all four wheels.
-Bill

[Chiketkd]

Thanks Bill!

Tom & clan are a great group of people indeed! :)

I'm thinking my fuel economy will decrease slightly, but not by much. 50% of my last trip was done with awd, and I was still able to average 24.7mpg overall. I think I'll definitely stay above 20mpg in mixed 50/50 city & highway driving...but time will tell. I plan on posting my mpg for my next 5 fill ups in this thread.

I can definitely feel a difference in the handling of my car - when going around tight corners I can get on the gas sooner, and whenever I hit a patch of gravel, I can always feel the rear wheels pushing me through. I love it!

BTW, I need to send you a PM about something...

-Chike
Originally posted by SVXRide
Chike,
Congrats on completing your quest for 4:11!!
Tom, Diana, and their "band" are very special members of the "SVX family" for sure!
It will be interesting to see how your gas mileage compares now that you're truly driving all four wheels.
-Bill

[svxfiles]

I used the legacy housing, with the legacy pinion(9 teeth) intact, so that I would not have to mess with setting the pinion depth,or pre-load, replacing the front seal and spacer.
I also used the legacy ring gear(37 teeth).
We are all was on a budget, so the less parts bought the better.
From the svx, we use the limited slip carrier/hub as much so that the axles fit, as to get the limited slip unit.
On a work bench, with a 3" cutoff wheel it's no big deal to grind out the 2 little bumps on the left side of the housing.
Subaru uses the same housings (exact same casting #s)on both cars and they grind out the ones with limited slips.
I also used the svx side plates and shims, so that the svx bearings, still on the svx carrier/hub,( ps; subaru calls this a holder) mated onto the same bearing cup.
Once the ring and carrier, shims and side plates were installed, we found out that we had to use the svx driveshaft flange, because the legacy flange was a little smaller.
To change flanges, we had to remove the differential cover, the side plates and the ring and carrier,THE RING GEAR MUST BE REMOVED before the flange can be re-installed.
If you don't the pinion can walk making it suddenly,(and suprisingly) hard to turn. After the flanges were swapped, it went back together smoothly.
Evan though we had the car 6 feet in the air, we still had to remove the muffler and mid pipe, up to the rear cat to drop the rear end.
Once the pipe was out of the way, the rear slid forward about 3" to clear the rear mounting studs, as it dropped, the axles poped out without much effort.
Working at a leasurly pace, it took from 1pm to about 7pm, but that was changing the front rotors, and waiting on the occasional customer. an 11 beer job:D Tom

[Chiketkd]

That was the best part... :D

-Chike
Originally posted by svxfiles
an 11 beer job:D Tom

[Chiketkd]

Originally posted by svxfiles
Working at a leasurly pace, it took from 1pm to about 7pm, but that was changing the front rotors, and waiting on the occasional customer.
Two front rotors that were practically frozen onto the axle! Those old ones were a bear for Tom to remove. Time was also spent looking at the several beautiful SVXs at Tom's place... ;)

-Chike

[SVXRide]

Tom,
Thanks for the detailed response. I didn't realize the casting was the same - is the number actually cast into the housing, or is it on the plate on the diff cover?
-Bill

[svxfiles]

The numbers were cast into and raised above the surface on the top of both the svx rear Rufus provided, and the 91 legacy that I found.


A

7
w 1 0 5
6


B
This represents the numbers layout, except that the #s,7,5+6 are in the same location, but turned 90 degrees clockwise.

MY 97 legacy outback trans w/4.44s and my 99 forester rear just were delivered! :D Oh goody, more sleepless nights!

[huck369]

Originally posted by svxfiles


MY 97 legacy outback trans w/4.44s and my 99 forester rear just were delivered! :D Oh goody, more sleepless nights!

That's gonna be wicked:eek:

[Chiketkd]

Originally posted by svxfiles
MY 97 legacy outback trans w/4.44s and my 99 forester rear just were delivered! :D Oh goody, more sleepless nights!
That's awesome Tom! Your car is gonna haul some serious butt!!! :cool:

-Chike

P.S. When do plan on doing the swap? I may be able to sneek out of the house and make it up there to lend you a hand. ;) I love working on SVXs!!!

[svxfiles]

If I can I'll yank the rear out of mine this week so that I can have the rear ready ahead of time. Hopefully I can do the swap this weekend, but I'm working Sat:rolleyes: . Then a very good friend is getting married Sat:cool: . So that leaves Beerfest/tranny swap sat night and all day sunday:eek: Who wants FREE tranny swap lessons:D . It's a gas,gas,gas,:D . Tom

Or maybe I should wait till my back heals first:rolleyes:

[Chiketkd]

Originally posted by svxfiles
Or maybe I should wait till my back heals first:rolleyes:
My wife would put my head on the chopping block if I went up there again this weekend, but if you put it off to the following weekend, I could come up and help you for a day.

-Chike

[Chiketkd]

Well I've taken it easy on my car since completing the rear diff swap over the weekend. I religiuosly check underneath my car each morning to make sure the rear diff isn't leaking and everything has been just perfect thus far!

On the drive home from work today, I decided to take the long way to enjoy a nice romp on my favorite twisty road! My 4.11 SVX performed flwalessly, powering out of corners with a solid thrust from the rear wheels! At no point did I hear any unusual sounds coming from the rear. Everything was in perfect harmony...

While still driving along a remote stretch of road, I brought the car to a complete stop and decided to attempt my first awd launch. When I only had fwd w/ the 4.11 gears, flooring the gas from idle would result in wheelspin...today I brought the revs up to 2500 rpms by brake torquing the engine, then hammered the gas pedal to the floor. Not a whisper of wheelspin was heard, just the insanely unadulterated acceleration to redline! :D

I plan on babying the car for the next couple o' weeks, but in September I'll be taking her to the track for some 1/4 mile passes. Needed to test her out on the street first though, as I would rather find out now if my awd system isn't strong enough to withstand a hard launch... ;)

-Chike :cool:

[NeedForSpeed]

Okay, you guys are fanning the flame. Our car is up on four stands. Hope to get the rear out this weekend and tackle the front the following weekend.

Tom, svxfiles, has been generous with personal time and tips. Thanks!

And Chike's pictures and constant posts are amazing.

[Earthworm]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
When I only had fwd w/ the 4.11 gears, flooring the gas from idle would result in wheelspin...The SVX will easily spin in FWD mode even with stock gears. Honestly I don't know how the FWD only SVXers manage? :D

[Chiketkd]

Originally posted by Earthworm
The SVX will easily spin in FWD mode even with stock gears. Honestly I don't know how the FWD only SVXers manage? :D
AWD, can't live w/o it, eh? ;)

-Chike

[Earthworm]

Originally posted by Chiketkd

AWD, can't live w/o it, eh? ;)

-Chike Not with my driving style! When I put in the FWD fuse I found myself spinning the tires at every traffic light.

[GreenMarine]

Originally posted by huck369




That's fine by me.....but am I still the Prez?.......hehe:D :D :D

I think Subafreak is the only 3.90 SVX out there...at least that I kknow of....anyone else have a 3.90 SVX?

Hehehe, Mine is... :):):) Wait...... WAS :(:(:(

[Chiketkd]

Originally posted by GreenMarineSVX
Hehehe, Mine is... :):):) Wait...... WAS :(:(:(
and WILL be again! ;) :)

-Chike

[Chiketkd]

This is now my 6th tank after getting the 4.11 gears installed, and my first complete tank done since installing my rear diff and being awd again...

Drove my usual 50/50 city & highway driving.

361 miles on 16.785 gal = 21.51 mpg

-Chike

[Earthworm]

How aggressive is your driving? I'm getting 20mpg (US) all city driving lately.

[Chiketkd]

Originally posted by Earthworm
How aggressive is your driving? I'm getting 20mpg (US) all city driving lately.
90% of the time, I drive my car like a responsible adult - I never gun it from stoplights and I cruise along highways at the posted speeds. Occasionally on my way home from work I take this alternative twisty route, and have a little fun carving up some back roads! :D I normally do it at least 3 times per tank.

One reason for my good gas mileage is that all six of my spark plugs were replaced in June. The dealer also replaced both primary O2 sensors prior to my purchase...

-Chike

[Earthworm]

I wasn't saying your mileage was good. I'm saying I think it should be better.

I'm getting similar mileage to you with 100% city driving.

[Chiketkd]

Originally posted by Earthworm
I wasn't saying your mileage was good. I'm saying I think it should be better.

I'm getting similar mileage to you with 100% city driving.
Based on the several threads I've seen where members have talked about their gas mileage in stock geared SVX's, 21.5 in mixed city & highway would have been right in the middle of the numbers people were posting. As my car is an awd 4.11 geared SVX, several people were expecting my mileage to plummet sharply, but the decrease has only been ~0.5-1 mpg based on the numbers I was getting before the swap.

You're in Canada where the air temps would be a little cooler than here. I've always found my gas mileage improves as temps drop as my car runs more efficiently...

In 90%+ highway driving on a tank, I've averaged roughly 25mpg, compared to numbers for stock geared cars which might be ~2mpg better.

Either way, my posts are merely to demonstrate that the gas mileage after doing a 4.11 swap is far from terrible and definitely something you can live with. Most performance coupes/sedans don't get 21.5 mpg in mixed city & highway.

-Chike

[Earthworm]

It also doesn't help that I'm used to larger gallons. I always see higher mileage because our gallon is 4.546L instead of 3.78L.

My average mileage since I bought the car is 24MPG...my gallons :cool:

[GreenMarine]

Originally posted by Earthworm
It also doesn't help that I'm used to larger gallons. I always see higher mileage because our gallon is 4.546L instead of 3.78L.

My average mileage since I bought the car is 24MPG...my gallons :cool:

I used to average really high... About 25 mpg when I had my Auto in. Then I did the 5 speed swap and got around 21 mpg (average). However my average while driving the Dragon and the other roads up there in the mountians was about 6-10 mpg :D:D:D Would go through about half a tank in an hour. Only would get about 145miles per tank :D:D:D That just goes to show ya how fun it is up there!!! Until something bad happens :rolleyes:

[Chiketkd]

Plus, one thing I overlooked, is that my impression of responsible adult driving, is anything but to my wife... :rolleyes:

Still, compared to my '90 300ZX TT (18mpg avg) and '00 SVT Lightning (14mpg avg), this SVX is by far the most fuel efficient car I've ever owned hands down (even with 4.11 gears)! :cool:

-Chike

P.S. It's also the slowest in a straight line...but the most fun on a twisty backroad!

[Earthworm]

Originally posted by GreenMarineSVX
I used to average really high... About 25 mpg when I had my Auto in. Then I did the 5 speed swap and got around 21 mpg (average).I noticed the same as well. I attribute this to the fact that I was having so much more fun driving the car. If I take it easy I get the same if not better mileage now.

[Chiketkd]

David,

I totally forgot you have a 5spd... You gas mileage would be significantly better than a 4EAT SVX due to the lower drivetrain loss with manual transmissions.

My old 5spd '90 300ZX TT got on average 2mpg better gas mileage than automatic versions.

-Chike

[huck369]

Originally posted by Chiketkd
David,

I totally forgot you have a 5spd... You gas mileage would be significantly better than a 4EAT SVX due to the lower drivetrain loss with manual transmissions.

My old 5spd '90 300ZX TT got on average 2mpg better gas mileage than automatic versions.

-Chike

But the 5-speed high gear is lower than the 4EAT's high gear, thus making it turn more RPM's in high gear.....

[PatrickB]

On my trip back from MN my 5spd averaging 85-80 it got 438 and i filled up with 15.1 gallons. that is almost 30mpg.

[Chiketkd]

Originally posted by huck369
But the 5-speed high gear is lower than the 4EAT's high gear, thus making it turn more RPM's in high gear.....
Comparing 5spd to 4EAT fuel consumption is still not a true apples-to-apples comparison...

-Chike

[Chiketkd]

Which includes my passes at the drag strip last Friday and about 50/50 city and highway driving...

370.7 miles on 16.33 gal = 22.7 mpg

-Chike