Theoretically, how much torque could the strongest 6-speed manual gearbox take?

[Jimbo_Jones]

basically, it could handle as much as it was designed for...

i mean, the gear-box from a viper would have been designed to handle the amount of torque a viper engine produces

[Pennzoil GT-R]

F1 has a box that uses paddle shift and an electronically controller clutch, but the box can be switched to full auto, auto upshift only, auto downshift only or full sequential manual via the paddles.

[ivymike1031]

Here's a 6-speed manual tranny made by Eaton that will handle 860 ft*lbf :

http://www.truck.eaton.com/na/spec_p.../fso-8406a.htm

[454Casull]

but the box can be switched to full auto

Still uses a manual gearbox.

[Pennzoil GT-R]

maybe, but the revs will be better matched than on a manual so acceleration will be a little quicker.

[454Casull]

Never mind!

[Pennzoil GT-R]

Originally posted by 454Casull
Never mind!

LOL, lets forget about the F1 gear box!

[911GT2]

Originally posted by 454Casull
I'm just wondering, since some guy told me that automatics are best for dragging because manuals can't handle the power.

That's not entirely right, but with automatics you can't have human error. Do you know how hard it is to hook up 500+ ft/lbs of torque with a multiplate clutch??? Instead of several variables, an automatic with a similar torque number requires only throttle modulation, which is much easier.

Theoretically, the same metal strength, the same torque capacity. It's not whether the tranny can take it, but if the pilot can hook it up.

And pennzoil, NO real race series uses a full automatic gearbox. F1 gearboxes have a clutch and flywheel, so it's just like you running it through the gears except that the clutch is hydraulically activated and the computer gives the throttle a blip to keep the engine and transmission in sync. The only winner of any major race series was a NASCAR driver in the 80s who used an automatic, and since shifts in NASCAR are few and far between, it's not a big deal.

[AquaDave]

manuals use less power to turn and give you more control over your RPMs so you can keep in power zone of your engine (350hp@6500rpm or what ever) in drag racing autos are better because you can't shift 4 times in 6-9sec. as well as an auto.
The reason big trucks have manuals is because they can handle the heavy torque
I like an auto in my 4wd because I don't work the clutch as much in tight places and gives me a smoother bottom end so I don't spin out and bogg down
Everything has a purpose