In a discussion of the challengES in racing competitively with the H-pattern gearbox against the SA-Dev, I did have a discussion about options. There may be an optional set of gearing that could help close the gap to the SA-Dev, for those trying to keep the H-Pattern class alive (and more competitive). While I don't have specifics, what I did learn is that it's possible to fit another gear set into the current transmission that would close some of the gaps in gearing. The cost would be in the range of $1,500 (plus installation). The one caveat is that fifth gear would be closer to our current fourth gear, so this might not be suitable to tracks needing the H-Pattern fifth gear.

Appreciate all comments, for and against, to help determine if this would be a viable option for H-Pattern cars to pursue. While we would not get the advantages of sequential shifting, it could help us keep/get back more H-Pattern cars back on the grid.

Thanks in advance for your feedback
Bob Breton - SRFH 51 - San Francisco SCCA Region

It's been a few years but I'm pretty sure top speed is limited by HP not 5th gear. Sounds like a good idea although IMO the value of getting down to 2nd in the SADEV at some tracks is that it's so easy to shift between 3rd that it makes it worth it.

I just converted to a SADEV this year. I was originally going to be a holdout with the H pattern because I'm only racing part time and have a couple spare transmissions. What changed my mind is the fact that the sequential transmission eliminates missed shifts (that sometimes occurred to screw up my race), allows a quick downshift and then immediate upshift when encountering a slower car entering a corner, and finally is an investment in the car itself. No amount of modification will allow an H pattern to erase those advantages.

In my opinion, those racers who stay with the H pattern (an endangered species) would probably not take the effort to modify the gearing.