I know there's been a few topics...  

I have a 96 Tracker with the 3 speed auto (locks up at 47ish mph) and have a few questions related to offroading. Automatic is just too convenient offroading, besides the wheel speed factor for mud.

I'll have a fresh bottom end soon and already have a worked head (PnP, valves/seats redone, decked .015) 2" exhaust, HF cat, magnaflow muffler. I'm currently running 30x9.5 A/T but want to up it to a 32" (possibly 33") with a more aggressive tread.


On to the questions:

1. What gearing am I most likely to have?
1a. Should I invest in a different ratio? I'll probably be putting a small turbo on it so would I need the lower gearing with the higher power?

2. Would I benefit from a trans cooler?
2a. Should I mount a fan on the trans cooler?
2b. Should I get a trans temp gauge, and if so, what are normal operating temps?

3. Are there shift-kits available for this transmission?
3a. Would it be beneficial to run one?
3b. Any specific brand people run?


ALSO:

Anybody remove A/C completelly? My A/C system has a leak and has had it ever since I got the Tracker 4 years ago. I'm not interested in fixing it and am looking to clear some room and possibly relocate the alternator to where the compressor is to keep it out of the water/mud more often.

What would I do for tensioning the belt for the waterpump then? I guess relocating the A/C I'd have to make some custom mounts and a slide on it to be able to adjust that belts tension.

You probably have the 4.30 gears which make it possible tyo swap the 5.12 gears from a manual trans model in. You should be able to run 32's easliy ( I have the same set up and it works great.) Get a trans cooler for sure, the biggest you can fit. Not sure if a fan is necessary, but it probably can't hurt. the trans will warm up slower though, so the first couple miles on a cold day it'll shift slower. I don't no of any shift kits for this trans, if you find one let me know!
As far as removing the AC, just remove it if you don't want it. Some guys have made very effective on board air systems from theirs though, you may want to rethink that. I'd leave the alternator where it is, a lot of fab work for very little benefit. Hope this helps.