moosestanggt

what does the overdrive button do?? i was wondering if it is better to race with "o/d off". i have an automatic transmission and i wanted some tips on if this helps in racing in any way thank you!!!!!

Seatlyte

By default the overdrive is engaged and depressing the button will switch it off....and back on of course. When disengaged an indicator will light up on the base of the instrument panel. I don't understand why it is on by default but you should turn it off when you start up since it is best used above 50 mph and if you have a 3.8 v6 it is hard on the drive train to put strain on the engine below 2000 rpm. I often drop to 2nd gear to climb grades at low speeds.

Seatlyte

As for your 5.0 racing question: I have had several 302's in various vehicle most notably a '63 Falcon Ranchero with a Boss 302 rescued from a totaled Mustang. With a 3 spd manual trans I could do a 1/4 mile before having to drop to 2nd, I had no tach but I'm sure I was pushing 7,000 rpm and lost 1 out of 100 or so drags (malibu with 396 got me just at the line). I wouldn't recommend that high a rev with today's engines! There is no case where OD would be needed so, again I say turn it off as soon as you start up...it is a freeway/mileage gear.

Keep a close watch on your compression numbers for each cylinder if you race hard and change oil at least twice as often as normal. A constantly wound out engine is like a hyperactive child, unless watched it will get away from you.

ggeezy

Take it off when you race....especially if you are racing at lower speeds. overdrive is better for anything over 60, so keep that in mind

moosestanggt

alright thanks for all the responses so race with the "o/d off" light on at lower speeds