That floor and Gearbox

[dave36]

new proud owner of '89 built jago, transit 1600 block, modified head and stage 2 cam.
1st question, I have read instructions on replacing floor and am wondering if I can "Sandwich" the timber floor with 3mm Aluminium chequer plate as the floor has not fully failed, it is soft in places. Any suggestions very welcome.
2nd question, I have escort van back axle hence geep a little on thirsty side, would like to keep it due to torque advantages, can I fit a 5 speed box? if so which one do I look for? and will it drop straight in or do I have to modify mountings (not a problem, but do want to be prepared!)
thank you
Dave

[techsec]

Hi
The 1600 OHC unit from either the Transit or a car can have the Sierra 1600 OHC type 9 gearbox fitted to it.
The gearbox mounts (chassis) may require cutting back to accommodate the extra width of the 5-speed unit.
Mind you if it already has got the Transit box fitted then it may have already had the mounts cut back enough.
Jago's by their lack of aerodynamics are never going to be the most economical vehicle on the road so the back axle will not be making that much difference anyway. After all you have got a stage two modified head/cam fitted.

Yes you can sandwich the floor between ali chequer plate if you so wish. Try to make good any soft parts of the wood floor before hand to reduce the increase in rot (wood hardening resin used to stop rot in household woodwork will do).

[dave36]

Thank for reply
Floor - very happy have all I need to do it!

Gearbox, don't have an idea what is in there, but, I figure that if I cruise at 50/60 then the lower revs due to 5 speed box will save me juice, the axle is the van variant (?1:1.444?)

[techsec]

If it has the Transit box in then the gear lever will be on the passenger side near the dashboard (or even under it).
Yes bring the revs down with the 5th gear will help slightly on the mpg.
The advantage of the 4.44:1 rear axle is that the engine will not be struggling to get the Geep moving although as you say it will make the engine peak sooner.

>> Edited by techsec on Saturday 2nd March 22:38