ok as some of you know.

i have 1998 outback 5 speed.

 

if i were to keep it and modify it.

 

how hard is it to change it to a 6 speed ?

just a simple change ? (also rear diff matching)

 

what are the benefits of a 6th gear ? is it worth the change ?

Depending on the transmission, you get closer steps between the gears, and either a very every so slightly lower final gear or very ever so slightly higher final gear. Either way, you get one extra gear to shift through, but no benefit in cruising RPM. And you're out anywhere from $2,000-3,000 for the transmission. 6 speeds are generally in short supply and high demand by the performance crowd, because they keep blowing them up.

 

Here is a fairly comprehensive chart on which transmissions have which ratios.

http://www.northursalia.com/techdocs/trannychart/trannychart.html

Not worth it on an OBW. You don't make enough power to need the 6 speed. They are expensive and making it fit would be a lot of work for very little gain.

 

The 6 speed is a performance transmission and has VERY short gears. It is not designed for the OBW's ride height and tire sizing.

 

GD

thanks,

 

should be worth putting an SVX though ?

thanks,

 

should be worth putting an SVX though ?

 

Heck ya! Freakin' sick!

 

The problem most of the time is finding one that isn't trashed Also if you get a "newer" one, you might get the DCCD knob as well...

A good 6spd trans will cost between $3k-$4k, depending on mileage.

I answered this exact same question on mysubie the other day.

 

Not worth the change at all. That tranny will be worth more than your wagon.

ok, thanks guys

 

i know they are expensive.

 

right now on craigslist a 6 speed transmission, dccd contorller, all 4 axles, Clutch, shifter link, Flywheel and rear diff for $3,300 at 50K miles

You can just change the transmission, driveshaft(out of an auto Outback) an a matching ratio rear diff. I spent 2750 on my 04 STi 6 speed for my Forester. You can use a 5 speed clutch for an 02-05WRX, and you can find a non DCCD 6 speed as well. Really not that much work, it will all bolt right in, but yes, TOO much money and not needed in an Outback.

I spent 2750 on my 04 STi 6 speed for my Forester.

 

I want to see more of this.

I want to see more of this.

 

My Forester?