Started the 454 last night for the first time! Hurray it started on the first try. Drove it around the block and noticed a considerable amount of what I would call gear whine in 1st and 2nd gear, out of the muncie. Is that normal on a M21 close-ratio? It was bought from a reputable builder and I have not used a muncie before. It doesn't sound like a bearing, just gear whine.

Started the 454 last night for the first time! Hurray it started on the first try. Drove it around the block and noticed a considerable amount of what I would call gear whine in 1st and 2nd gear, out of the muncie. Is that normal on a M21 close-ratio? It was bought from a reputable builder and I have not used a muncie before. It doesn't sound like a bearing, just gear whine.

Not normal for a M21, might be unmatched gears, used, that are trying to wear in a new pattern. Did you check the bell housing for run out???

You didn't forget the fluid did you?

After rebuilding my M20 this spring, it sounded like an M22. I'm kind of disappointed that it quieted down after about one hundred miles. You probably don't need to worry about it.

Yes, gear oil is in.