Thanks for the info on the 2nd gear sprag. I have always done my burnouts in 2nd (selector in 2) as it is easier to modulate the tire speed with throttle without any shifting up or down. I am very conscious of not letting the rpm drop too fast to keep from tossing the belt. Would it be better to start in 2nd and shift to 3rd during the burnout? I just like a little more wheel speed that a 1st gear burnout would provide without bouncing off the rev limiter.

 

Start in 1st so its easier to get the tires spinning and control the throttle and move the shifter to 3rd and let it shift to 3rd.

 

If at all possible, don't let it shift 1-2 in the burnout. It can unsettle the low roller clutch, then if its hurt, then as soon as you launch it goes boom. Chrysler 727s are famous for this happening.

Best is start in 2nd, then go to 3rd. Lack of power not be should an issue, as my stock 5.3L has no issue doing it with 3.00 gears and a spool. Also more wheel speed seems to let the car not go sideways as much during the burnout.