Though not race cars i think it stands to bear mentioning that Ferrari a company that very closely uses its racing programs to develop their street cars has switched from a single clutch automated manual (F1 system in f430, etc) to a twin clutch system for the California and upcoming F430 replacement.

BMW also switched the SMG system from the old M's to new twin clutch technology. As Porsche has also started offering dual clutch systems.

They may not be showing up on tracks yet as many prefer an old fashioned manual. But i dont see how one can argue that TC transmissions arent being used more often now, and seemingly more companies are developing them as we speak.

 

And how long did it take for Ferrari's single-clutch system to be reliable, streetable, etc? Hell, I can remember as a kid everyone making jokes about how bad the Ferrari system was. Porsche has a TC system for their 911 but they're also continuing to use their 7-speed torque converter transmission.
Nobody was arguing that the TC systems aren't being used more, but plenty disagree with the idea that they're perfected. They're still not in racing with any regularity which speaks volumes. I'm sure eventually they will become more common (assuming that their absence is not the result of regulations requiring a clutch pedal/lever) when the technology gets to the point that it's reliable, easily serviceable, etc.

 

Oh i agree with you. They have a long way to go. It just seems like with a lot of companies putting in the effort to use them. The biggest thing for TC gearboxes is that companies are beginning to offer them in volume cars over traditional automatic gearboxes . This will hopefully make servicing them the norm eventually. The more they build and sell should ultimately lead to a more reliable and easily fixed product.

 

has anyone thought about the tranny from a gsr? would that fit in the ra at all?

 

Yes, that has been considered. It probably would fit. No one will know, I guess, until someone tries it.

I would be willing to bet that the computer system wouldn't like that too much, although I have no clue. The electronics in this car are way above my level of understanding. I wonder how a GSR manual would work in conjunction with the visual display that we have in our Ralliarts. I bet that there is a lot more to swapping over a manual than is immediately apparent.

 

That is the biggest issue that I have with this gearbox. The mechanic at the local dealership has no clue how to work on it. I don't even want to know what that means if I ever run into a problem with this transmission. The next dealership is 30 minutes away.

 

It's been discussed briefly but so far no one has done it. It's a pretty expensive option if you're not completely sure that it will work and what parts are needed.

 

re-reading my post, i realize i used the term: race-style or something similar when referring to the previous use of the tc system, i'd just like to rephrase, being that i meant performance based or exotic (porsche, ferrari, what have you) but couldnt think of the word for whatever reason and put what came to mind first when referring to the platforms traditionally used for tc transmissions.

as far as servicability, mitsu will not even allow a dealership tech to open up the sst, let alone try and work on it. if they have a problem, we run basic computerized and drivability-based diagnostic tests and report back to mitsu. then they authorize a complete replacement, end of story. if the transmission is opened up or tampered with in any way, warranty claim is voided for +/-$10k and we're on our own to fix or replace the customer's car

 

That is more or less the story that I got when I took my car in for an oil change and check-up not too long ago. Needless to say, I was thrilled to hear that.

 

nicely said

 

I know, im gonna take it slow, i wanna enjoy each upgrade, so i can feel that my money is being spent well. Plus would be good to slowly build up the power, for me to get use to the power, aswell for the car's sake

 

Exactly, and sry for the grammar, was typing quick, and not worrying how the everything was put together...

 

well im sure only 15-20% that drive manual would agree with that, but some that are new to it, would most like trade it over in months to have a auto/twinclutch and CVT have their pros and cons

 

Only 15-20% of people that drive manual would agree that driving manual isn't difficult? Is that what you're saying? If you view driving as a means of getting from A to B only, then sure, whatever makes getting there easier is undoubtedly the best option. However, for many cars, it isn't about the destination but the trip. This is where true manuals dominate, no computer can truly simulate the experience of using three pedals and a stick to make a car do what you want and ultimately these computer systems only act as a barrier between the driver and the car.

 

I have to agree with Amby. I enjoy driving stick, but my RA is also my DD and I have little to no interest in driving in local traffic with a stick. It's just not worth it to me. I like to play from time to time, and do miss the stick, steering wheel pedals and/or tap shifting just doesn't do it for me like a third pedal.

IMO, the TC transmission is as close to perfect for a DD/part-time weekend car as we can get. Were I to go out and buy a full blown weekend/project "toy" it would likely be the Evo X GSR or STI.

I am a gear head and the TC transmission is a unique piece of hardware, which interests me greatly. Unfortunately, as an early adopter, I am paying the price for my curiosity. Horsepower and torque limits of the transmission hinder power mods, limited support, limited availability, etc. The up side is that there are companies out there like SSP doing wonderful work with this transmission. Now if only I had the courage, money, time, and resources to crack this puppy open myself and dig in. Seriously, if I didn't need this car so much and I had the time, I would love to buy the SSP upgrade clutch packs and do all the work myself!!! That would be sooooo awesome.