Goblin A/T restrictions?

[Sonic Tacos]

So I have a 2006 cobalt ss supercharged I want to eventually use as my donor. My problem is I want to do the A/T goblin but it's only offered for auto trans base models which is a bit of a buzz kill for me. I plan to drive it on a regular basis, highly prefer manual, and am kinda wondering if it's an "all-terrain" goblin, why is it seemingly setup only for what's best off road, without much consideration for on road? Why is it they ONLY make it for auto trans base/sport models? Any insight is appreciated, as well as if anyone knows how to make the LSJ setup and manual trans work in the A/T

 

[Ross]

The automatic transmission has a lower gear ratio, which works well with tall tires.
You can ask DF if they would make a kit with the supercharged engine, just run it with more normal height tires.

 

[Desert Sasqwatch]

Sonic, welcome. The issue with running a manual transmission, as Ross eluded to, is some off-road driving situations are not well suited to a manual. Feathering the clutch, if not done properly, can create excess wear and scortching of the flywheel and pressure plate. The torque converter in the automatic can more readily accommodate the need for driveline slippage as excess heat in the transmission fluid. This is the reason most serious offroad vehicles use an automatic transmission.

On the other hand, there are many gear ratio options available that can get a manual transmission closer to an ideal offload gear selection to accommodate taller tires. There is a post somewhere on the forum where the tire size was discussed and it's effect on engine torque loss. I do recall the difference was about 21% going from the stock 25ish diameter tires to a 30(?) Inch tall tire. This is quite a bit and would require judicious manipulation of the clutch to prevent premature wear.

 

[George]

You could adapt an atv portal to the rear suspension.
Brad

 

[Rttoys]

You could adapt an atv portal to the rear suspension.
Brad

That would be cool. Those have come a long ways over the last few years.