Since 1st. gear is non-synchronized, using it as a traffic gear is pretty much a lost cause, as you have to come to a complete stop to engage it. Then a kid on a 10-speed bicycle will beat you getting away from every stoplight. 4th. gear will produce the same highway speed as the current 3-speed does, as neither transmission has an overdrive ratio. On the upside, given halfway decent preventive maintenance, it will outlast the 3 speed about 4 to 1. Chevy 3 speed transmissions could be made out of wet pasta, and it would be a noticeable improvement in strength.
Jerry
