RPM shift question

[1970mule]

I just installed a new tach, and i wanted to know where should i set the shift light to, i want it to come on at a good RPM and not to much, i have a 4bbl TA on a 302. I just wanted to know what was the best shift point .

 

[Broncobowsher]

Best shift point depends on load.
Light load it is often just above idle speed
Heavy load, it will be higher
Then there is redline where you shouldn't spin it any faster.
Now there isn't any tue absolute numbers for any of these.

For best performance at full throttle (generally with these old engines anyway) is when you feel it nose over, shift. By nose over is when you feel the strong pull then after some RPM it doesn't pull as hard as it did at a lower RPM. At that point it has nosed over and you have crested peak power. Shift and run through the power peak again in the next gear. For a stock engine it will probably be in the 4000 RPM range.

 

[broncnaz]

Depends on your engine and overall gearing. Really set it where ever you like. Its a bronco not a race car.
I would also consider the 4000 rpm range as thats about where I tend to shift when I'm feeling froggy.

 

[1970mule]

ok, thanks for the input guys.