I am thinking of getting an S4 in my next car purchase. It looks like I will be buying a Funco Gen 5 Big 5.

My question is, I have been told you do not have to use the clutch once you get going with the S4? Is this true? Or is better to always use the clutch to help with the life of the Trans?

I am going to go with a stock LS1, then upgrade it later if I need to. I am a beginning driver, who is looking for something that is totally reliable. I do not want to be broken down. Is the S4 to much trans? Again I do nto want to be broken down, or wrench on the car that much.

No such thing as too much trans.

Lincster is right, no such thing as to much trans. Talk to Grant see what he thinks they know there stuff inside and out! I believe an S4 will be fine in your car. what tire size do you plan to run? Also go to the Mikes corner section of our website www.mendeolatransaxles.com there are some helpful articles there!

Not sure on the tires. Probably will go with there standard setup, not a bigger tire.

What about my question on using the clutch on the S4, does it matter to longevity? or can you just shift witholut using the clutch once you are moving?

Thanks for the help.

You can shift an s4 without a clutch, if you get it just right it will work and not harm the trans. Key words "getting it just right". With a v8 in the dunes you are not shifting much anyway, you can pretty much dune all day in third gear, so I just go ahead and use the clutch every time just to be safe. And yes, you can never have too much trans. Much better decision to go with a basic LS1 and get the s4. A few seasons later you can slap on turbos or a supercharger and you will already be set on the trans.

Make sure Grant tells you all about his 30K S-5 in his car behind a Subi.

This is my thinking. As I gain some talent behind the wheel.

S4 is way better on resale as well

Not using the clutch on the S4 is as simple as lift and shift , it has to be done in one quick motion. I definetly recommend using the clutch at first to get the shifting down, as well as when down shifting always use the clutch, you can down shift with out the clutch but increasing shaft speeds make it more difficult. You can call me if you have any questions at 617.710.8800 ext 109