1989 6-Spd
Race Director
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 10,691
Likes: 71
From: Phoenix Arizona
I had misread the post above me, so no, I don't think that a slight whine is uncommon, I have it on most of mine. The earlier ZF's were noiser than the later ones. You might check with the guys over in the ZR-1 section. They are VERY expensive to rebuild though.
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2003
Posts: 12,221
Likes: 446
From: Overland Park Kansas
2020 Corvette of the Year Finalist (appearance mods)
C4 of Year Winner (appearance mods) 2019
First 3 years had straight-cut gears. Later years had more of an angle cut...and are quieter.
If you're talking about a soft whine that would be hard to hear over low radio noise, I think that's normal. If it's as loud as tire noise (or louder), I'd be more concerned.
I can sometimes hear the slightest whine even on the hwy in other gears too. Very faint.
If you're talking about a soft whine that would be hard to hear over low radio noise, I think that's normal. If it's as loud as tire noise (or louder), I'd be more concerned.
I can sometimes hear the slightest whine even on the hwy in other gears too. Very faint.
Drifting
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,457
Likes: 9
From: Minneapolis MN
Yes, the early zf's tend to be loud. But they are very stout, too. It's hard for any of us on here to be able to tell you if what you're hearing is normal, though, without having heard it ourselves. See if you can find a knowledgeable local forum member or mechanic if you are not sure about it.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 10,777
Likes: 5
From: Wichita Ks
Yes, the early zf's tend to be loud. But they are very stout, too. It's hard for any of us on here to be able to tell you if what you're hearing is normal, though, without having heard it ourselves. See if you can find a knowledgeable local forum member or mechanic if you are not sure about it.
My 93 ZF makes a little noise in first but I can't tell you if that 89 is abnormal or not without hearing it. If you have doubts about it have it checked out before you buy it.
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Verdad Gallardo
Team Owner
Joined: Aug 2004
Posts: 21,543
Likes: 3,216
From: Park City Utah
Watch the beginning of this video...
When I FIRST pull out of my pit-spot, you can hear what I consider to be normal 1st gear whine in a ZF6.
Also at 0:30 when I downshift to first and mat it...
FYI, this is an earlier/"Black tag" ZF6 which would be the noisiest variety.
When I FIRST pull out of my pit-spot, you can hear what I consider to be normal 1st gear whine in a ZF6.
Also at 0:30 when I downshift to first and mat it...
FYI, this is an earlier/"Black tag" ZF6 which would be the noisiest variety.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 871
Likes: 15
From: Shepherdsville Kentucky
Looks like you're using a GoPro? You might look into a Contour. The lens is adjustable to compensate for the mount angle.
My 89 whines the same way as the video indicates after a fresh rebuild.
My 89 whines the same way as the video indicates after a fresh rebuild.