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Topic: tranny

in Forum: C3 Driveline Components


tranny

Posted: 8/14/08 8:02am Message 1 of 2
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Grant, AL - USA
Joined: 5/28/2008
Posts: 10
Vette(s): 1981 T/Tops , 350V8, A/C, P/S, P/B, A/T,
Hello can anyone maybe answer this question please have seen some vettes advertised for sale saying they have a 4+3 trany is this a manual tranny and what does it mean and is it a decent transmission any help appreciated .
                            Sincerly
                             Patrick Raucci
                             Pats81Vette



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tranny

Posted: 8/14/08 9:43am Message 2 of 2
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Duncanville, TX - USA
Joined: 11/8/2003
Posts: 20219
Vette(s): #1-1974 L-48 4spd Cp Med Red Metallic/Black deluxe int w/AC/tilt/tele./p/w-p/b/ Am-Fm/map light National/Regional/Chapter NCRS "Top Flight" #2-1985 Bright Red/Carmine Cp.L-98/auto Member: NCRS, NCRS Texas, Corvette Legends of Texas
The so called "4+3" was only used on the C4 cars, from '85, to around '89.
It is basically a regular 4speed manual, with an overdrive unit bolted to the rear. It was made by Doug Nash, and wasn't the most robust design ever. Actually, the 4speed part is fine, but the O/D unit is junk, imo.
If you are contemplating buying a C4 with the 4+3, be sure to ask lots of questions about the service history of the trans...most folks NEVER bothered to service the O/D unit, which causes major failures.
It operates in a manner that helps with fuel mileage. The trans is shifted just like a normal standard trans, 1-2-3-4. In 2-3 and 4, the O/D unit can be applied, creating the "extra" 3 gear ratios. The O/D unit was controlled by the computer on the first models, then it was driver selectable on the later cars.
Repairs on the O/D unit can cost a bundle...parts are hard to come by, and the labor to build them is steep. There is a place in NY that does carry just about any part needed for the O/D section. The problem is, he KNOWS he's the only one that has them, so he don't sell the stuff cheap!

hth


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in Forum: C3 Driveline Components


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