So, are these terrible transmissions? I have owned an 88 with the 5 speed in the past, I know that is the desire able combination. But, this 85 came up locally.
I know I will need to correct the bump steer and upgrade the brakes, but is the transmission garbage, or is it just fine for the whole 150 hp?
If you're looking for a Fiero, I talked to a guy last weekend from Watseka who has a few that he's wanting to clear out. I asked if he had an '88 Formula, but he said no. Beyond that I don't remember what he has. I know his name, and can get a phone number if you're interested.
Yup, looking for one again. Would like an 88, but everyone wants an 88..........
My FIL got two of them for $300. One of them drove out. Both complete, with titles and just needing some TLC.
These things are cheap, unless it is an '88 Formula.
It's a good trans. Nearly indestructible. Get the cables adjusted right and you can clutchless shift them. The diff bearings are the only weak spot but reinforcement bearings that are easy to install are available. If your goal is <200hp a smooth case trans will be fine. The webbed ones are stronger but not required. 150 HP is however a gross exageration unless its modified. Personally if the suspension and subframe bushings are sound I prefer the pre 88 suspension as it seemed more tossable to me. I partially miss fieros sometimes but the Mr2 spyder is so much better of a car.
nocones wrote: I partially miss fieros sometimes but the Mr2 *.* is so much better of a car.
FTFY. ;)
There are two different four speed trans. One is an Isuzu economy trans, the other is a Getrag unit, geared a little shorter. Both hold up to power mods as long as you stay south of 250hp. In fact, the Isuzu is probably a better choice for power because of the longer gearing not turning the motor more at highway speeds.
I always thought that the getrag unit was the one to have. I had an 85 with the Isuzu 5 speed, first and second were almost useless.
It's been a while since I've had my Fiero, but I remembered most of the facts about the trans.
http://www.fierosails.com/TransMan.html
racerfink wrote: There are two different four speed trans. One is an Isuzu economy trans, the other is a Getrag unit, geared a little shorter. Both hold up to power mods as long as you stay south of 250hp.
There are two different 5 speed transmissions. The 4 speeds are all the same basic muncie unit with different cases and different final drives. A rare 3.23, the common v6 3.63 and the common 4cyl 4.10. I installed a 4.10 behind my v6 for a nice pickup in accel at the obvious expense of top end. The 3.23 is nice for torquey swaps because it makes 2nd go to like near 70 mph. They are rare though
Ah I see. So with the four speed and a stock motor, everything should survive normal use.
Yes should prove very durable.
Thanks
They have 140 BHP, not 150 BHP, and yes, the 4 speed is reasonably strong but not as much fun as the Getrag 5 speed.
I've owned both 1987 and 1988 and I would never own another pre-88, the suspension is that much better. After all, you are working with a Chevette front end and a Citation cradle on the rear.......
Suspension is better for what? I autocrossed my 86 GT in the 90's and the TOP guys in SCCA running fiero's had 84 to 87 cars with 88 swapped rears.
As for the tranny, 4spd is great, 60mph 2nd gear. I loved mine. Now a Getrag Northstar.
nocones wrote: but the Mr2 spyder is so much better of a car.
Wait, when did you get an MR2?
You'll need to log in to post.
