Quote:
Originally Posted by CarlG
3.78 rear with 27% OD lets me cruise at 50, (sometimes up to 55) at a nice pace, engine turning under 2K. Good enough for me.
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All four of my Model As have that setup, even the one I use to tow a camper that weighs about a tonne (2,200 lb) at 50 mph all day. IMO, it is the best overall configuration. I can tow at 55-60 on the flat for a short while if I want and it is rare that low first struggles to get up a hill. When that does happen, I zig zag my way up. I've never failed to top the crest but I've made it work hard in low first, even with a more powerful touring engine.
My way of looking at it is: Ford gave a lot of thought and experimentation to find the best ratio for the Model A (standard engine, of course). Mitchell did similar when deciding on 26% (and 33%) ratios for their O/Ds expecting that people who install them don't mind modifying their car so will have a peppier engine. I'm not about to spend big $ second guessing them.