Help!!!! I'm getting smoked by rice!(kinda long)

[Mr 5 0]

90 '50 Conv:

You're running (converted to 1/4 mile et) high 15's which is slow but about right considering your high 60 foot times, the weight of the car and the crappy rear axle ratio. Add to that the shifting hassle you describe as well as the hotter weather and you have all the ingredients for a slow et.

As stated, rear gears are a good modification to help compensate for the lazy AOD, although it probably won't last too long if you keep beating on it. The AOD is a passenger car tranny, not really meant for heavy-duty use.

Until you can do some mods, I suggest doing some 'track prep'. Change the engine oil and the transmission oil jthe day before race day/night. At the track, take the spare and jack out of the trunk, the convertible mechanism is enough weight. Pump up the front tires to 50 pounds before racing (deflate to normal before leaving the track), tune the engine as best you can - play with the timing a bit - and for sure, bring a bunch of ice bags (in a chest) and cool down the intake before racing. On a hot night, the ice alone is worth a tenth, possibly two, guaranteed. You should see mid-15's, at least.

Adding the 4.10's should get you into the high 14's , especially if you add underdrive pullies and a better exhaust . Once there, a higher stall-speed converter is in order, then some serious engine work(aftermarket heads) but with the gears and some relatively minor mods, you should be safely in the 14's and ahead of those pesky Civics.