ring and pinion doesn't count as a mod? interesting. well, if you go up in ratio (bigger number), you will turn more rpms in 2nd gear, which should give you a cleaner exit. you'll lose a little top speed tho.
somebody correct me if i'm wrong, it's almost 5 in the morning and i can't sleep
edit: having reread the origional post, i realize i'm an idiot.
yet i should still be right cuz you'd still turn higher rpms in 3rd, solving the problem.