Left hand drive conversion on UK spec GTR

[gritbox]

Had an email from a potential buyer from overseas asking if it was possible to convert my GTR to LH drive. I said it shouldnt be a major issue. But would involve time and money. Undeterred he agreed to buy the car. He was due to bank transfer the money to me, but this evening I received an email from him saying he cant buy the car as he has spoken to Ted Marlow at the factory who said that to convert the car would cost a lot of money and wouldnt be worth it. Theres 2 points to this post...what do you reckon the cost of a conversion would be? and 2nd would the factory just say this so they dont lose out on the potential sale of a kit?

[gtr-gaz]

I think that's been asked before and from what I remember of it, it is quite a costly job.

Steve.D will be the man with all the answers as to what will be exactly required


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

Knew it was here somewhere!

Edited by gtr-gaz on Monday 10th March 19:01

[gritbox]

Thanks Gaz,

Steve, any ideas of cost? assume new dash, steering rack, modified gearshift, move ignition/mirror switch, move pedal box, brake/clutch cylinders...what else?

[gritbox]

Hmmm big job indeed, but not impossible though. However the cost associated seems like it would not be viable.

[Steve_D]

gritbox said:

Thanks Gaz,

Steve, any ideas of cost? assume new dash, steering rack, modified gearshift, move ignition/mirror switch, move pedal box, brake/clutch cylinders...what else?

I will not attempt to put a cost to it but agree with the factory that it is not really viable.

To your list add that the dash is an integral part of the body so would need to be cut out leaving a flange that a new dash could be bonded too.
Under the dash most of the existing chassis tubes will need the be cut out and remade to support the steering column. Being safety critical this would have to be done well.
A new reinforced section will need adding to the front bulkhead and floor to take master cylinders and pedals.
Remove inner side skin to mount gear shift and weld in shift rod mounts all the way back.
Quite an array of wiring mods and repositioned switches and dials.

How many ££££s are we up to now? Need I go on.

Steve

[gritbox]

I think your point has been made.... at least now I can give a definitive answer to anyone asking the same question. Cheers Steve