Building or upgrading a replica car is more than a hobby—it’s a passion project. Enthusiasts spend countless hours perfecting every detail, from the exterior bodywork to the engine’s roar.
But when it comes to optimizing performance, one upgrade stands out: the Subaru 5-Speed 2WD Reversed Ring and Pinion. This upgrade transforms how your replica car handles power, offering smoother transmission performance and enhanced drivability.
Not only does it offer improved power distribution, but it also enables precise handling and versatility for custom builds. In this blog, we’ll explore how this component can redefine your replica car’s driving experience.
What Is A Subaru 5-Speed 2WD Reversed Ring And Pinion?
The Subaru 5-Speed 2WD Reversed Ring and Pinion is a specialized gear set designed for Subaru manual transmissions.
It converts an all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup into a two-wheel-drive (2WD) system. But this isn’t just any conversion—it changes the rotation of the output axles, reversing the drivetrain’s direction.
This gear set is particularly beneficial for replica car builders aiming for mid-engine or rear-engine configurations. Here’s what it offers:
- Reverse Rotation: The system reverses the rotation to the output axles, which is essential for mid-engine applications.
- AWD to 2WD Conversion: Comes with a spline adapter that locks the shaft, allowing for a seamless transition from AWD to 2WD.
- Various Gear Ratios Available: Choose from multiple gear ratios to suit your performance needs:
- 3.9:1
- 4.11:1
- 4.44:1
- 4.86:1
What’s Included In Specialised Parts’ Kit?
The gear set comes complete with everything needed for installation:
- Reverse rotation 5-speed pinion gear shaft
- Reverse rotation matching crown wheel gear
- Spline adapter to lock the shaft for AWD to 2WD conversion
These components ensure that the kit works seamlessly with your Subaru 5-speed manual transmission, offering precision and durability for your replica build.
Why Upgrade Your Replica Car’s Transmission?
When building a replica car, performance and authenticity matter.
However, traditional transmission setups may not provide the desired power distribution for mid-engine or rear-engine builds. This is where the Subaru 5-speed 2WD reversed ring and pinion shines.
Optimized For Mid-Engine And Rear-Engine Applications
One of the main reasons builders opt for this reversed gear set is for mid-engine and rear-engine conversions. Vehicles like Porsche replicas or certain Volkswagen-based kit cars require reversed axle rotation for proper functioning.
Enhanced Drivetrain Efficiency
Upgrading to a reversed ring and pinion offers improved torque distribution and drivetrain efficiency. This results in:
- Smoother power delivery
- Better handling at high speeds
- Reduced drivetrain stress
Customizable Gear Ratios For Performance Tuning
Each gear ratio offers a unique driving experience:
- 3.9:1 Ratio – Best for high-speed stability and fuel economy.
- 4.11:1 Ratio – Balanced for everyday driving and occasional performance boosts.
- 4.44:1 Ratio – Ideal for spirited driving with quicker acceleration.
- 4.86:1 Ratio – Perfect for track use, offering aggressive acceleration.
Ideal Replica Car Builds For This Upgrade
Certain replica cars benefit significantly from a reversed ring and pinion upgrade. Here are a few examples:
Volkswagen Vans And Replicas
Volkswagen enthusiasts often use Subaru engines and transmissions for added power. The reversed ring and pinion allow for easier integration into older VW vans and replica builds.
Classic Porsche Replicas
Many classic Porsche kits, especially mid-engine models, require reversed axle rotation for proper performance. This gear set provides a seamless solution for integrating Subaru drivetrains into Porsche replicas.
Custom Subaru Van Projects
Custom Subaru van projects also benefit from this upgrade, especially when aiming for performance improvements and drivetrain reliability.
Installation Process: What You Need To Know
Upgrading to a Subaru 5-speed 2WD reversed ring and pinion requires technical expertise. Here’s an overview of the installation process:
Tools And Equipment Needed
- Transmission jack
- Socket wrench set
- Torque wrench
- Transmission fluid
- Specialized tools for pinion gear installation
Step-By-Step Guide
- Disassemble the Transmission
- Safely remove the transmission from the vehicle.
- Install the Pinion Gear
- Replace the standard pinion gear with the reversed rotation gear.
- Attach the Crown Wheel Gear
- Install the crown wheel gear, ensuring proper alignment.
- Install the Spline Adapter
- Convert the transmission from AWD to 2WD by locking the shaft.
- Reassemble and Test
- Reinstall the transmission and perform a full test to ensure proper functionality.
About Us
At Specialised Parts, we are passionate about helping car enthusiasts bring their custom builds to life. As a leading manufacturer and supplier of high-quality drivetrain components, we specialize in Volkswagen-running Subaru drivetrain auto parts.
Our focus is on providing reliable, precision-engineered solutions for car enthusiasts and replica builders alike. From oil pressure kits to our renowned short shifter assemblies, we deliver innovative products designed to boost performance and durability.
We cater to VW and Subaru enthusiasts nationwide, ensuring that every part we supply meets the highest quality standards. Contact us today for more information.
