Auto gearbox question

[hallsie]

Does anyone have any idea as to how easy it would be to change an auto gearbox in a 280i for a manual box?
Will it just be a case of removing the box and torque drive and fitting a manual box or will it be a complete change of prop and possibly an adaptor plate?

Following on from that, would it be worth just sourcing a V8 engine and box and doing a complete change?

I know there will be some space and chassis issues with the second option, but at least it will give me the opportunity to completely clean and seal the chassis with the body off!

Thanks

Stu

[pwd95]

Have a look at this thread........

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

A few over in the States have successfully put the Ford 302 V8 motor in.

[B@man]

Hi Stu,

I've not done an auto to manual on a wedge but have done it on a couple of other cars, usually you need :
Flywheel
Clutch
Clutch pedal / complete pedal box
Gearbox (obviously !)
Propshaft (maybe possible to get old one modified)
Spigot bearing
Gearbox mount

The diff ratio can also be a problem as it will not be correctly matched for a 5 speed box, it may be ok with a 4 speeder.

Given the hassle I'd Stick a V8 in it.....

[hallsie]

The V8 route seem like the way to go I think.

Ill start with calling some breakers for prices.

What do people think is reasonable for a 350i engine and box plus brains and loom?

Stu

[kevsmev]

Hi Stu, I did this conversion on my wedge a few years ago. Not too difficult. I did a write up on this going into detail, and sent it off to "Wedgepages" but it never got published. I think it was at the time when it was changing hands. If you would like a copy, PM me and I will send on.
Kev

[peaktorque]

hallsie said:

The V8 route seem like the way to go I think.

Ill start with calling some breakers for prices.

What do people think is reasonable for a 350i engine and box plus brains and loom?

Stu

I paid:-

£63 engine- ebay (sold the SU carbs that come with it for £103 , on ebay )
£35 ECU- ebay
£25 AFM- ebay
£32 EFI plenum, inlet manifold, some of the loom (which I didn't need) and some crap attached to it- ebay
£5 (ish I think) spigot bush to convert RR - SD1 gearbox - Rimmer bros
£60 SD1 flywheel (the RR one is an inch too big)- RPI

They were all a bit of a gamble, but at them prices you can chuck the st into the bin and buy again. Had a bit of a result with the carbs .It all works too!

Dead Range Rovers and ebay are your best friend as a 'budget Wedger'