Frankly, I'm not the most gifted mechanic around. I will lay claim to some of the best friends who are willing to lend a hand when I get to limit of my ability. After saying that, When I made the decision to go away from the 948, I was leaving that stock world to a new adventure. Rivergate is great in all aspects. The kit for the conversion is well thought out and easy to follow the mods for the installation. Any ?s and they have an answer that I could understand. All that said. Syncro 1st and a 5th gear is really nice. I haven't changed my rear end and I am running 75 at 4200 rpm. the 1275 likes that that speed & will pull any hill on the interstate around here. This summer I'm installing a sc'ed engine. More fun!!!!!!!!!! I did worry about going away stock, but afterward, I wonder why I didn't do it before.