[Tommy R]

Hey you all,

I'm looking for information on 4th Gen F-bodies. Specifically, I'm interested in the diff options, gearing differences (rear end and tranny), 1LE vs. base model specs, and any other differences from model year to model year.

For example, I know the '93s are speed density, not mass air. Are there any differences there from a performance or maintenance standpoint? The '93s also had a slightly different T-56 tranny, as I understand it. Were '93 and '94 models not available with 3.42 rear gears? Would a 150 mph speedo indicate that the car has 3.42's? No governor? I remember my old roommate's '94 T/A didn't have the "GT" package and as a result had the 115mph speedo, governor, and maybe even 3.23 gears (instead of 3.42s).

I know in '96 they went OBD-II with dual cats. They're also rated at an insignificant 10 hp more than the '93-'95 models. Of course, in '98 the LS1 came out with much more power. However, the LT1s are obviously still very compeitive in F-Stock, despite the power deficit, iron block, and smaller front brakes. Any particular reason for this? Or are the right people just not running LS1's? (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/unsure.gif)

So, needless to say, I'm intersted in LT1 vs. LS1 differences, too. But, I'll likely stay with the cheaper candidate, i.e. the LT1.

I should point out that I'd mainly be interested in F-Stock, so update/backdate concerns are of less importance. I'm not sure if/when I'd move to ESP.

Thanks in advance,
Tommy

[sgarnett]

Mobil 1 is one of those periodically-debated topics. I've used it (and still do) in a lot of different engines. The two exceptions are:

1) My 96 Dodge 5.9. These engines tend to build up crud at the intake manifold gasket, which allows it to dry out or otherwise develop a latent leak. Synthetics tend to clean out the crud and expose the gasket, allowing oil into the intake manifold. If I'd bought the truck new I'd have used M1 from the beginning, but since I bought it at 100K it gets conventional Castrol.

2) My oil-fired LS1 needs all the viscosity help it can get. It gets Redline 10W-40

Other than that, I run M1 in everything - generator, tractor, mowers, the built 350 SBC in my former truck, the venerable MGB (which cruises at 4000 rpm on the interstate).

In other words, I don't think there's anything wrong with M1 per se. However, I do think the M1 10W-30 grade is too thin for some applications.

OTOH, for the only engine I use in competition, Redline is a very small part of the total budget (IMG:http://www.frrax.com/rrforum/style_emoticons/default/wink.gif)