PLAY IT AGAIN BEETHOVEN'S THIRD SYNCROPHONY

[sloopjohnrb]

Many thanks for all your help re Glady's gearbox.

It in now certain that the gearbox needs repair or replacement.

I have sourced a few places that can supply the parts to repair and overhaul the gearbox, however my query is:

Is this a job that a reasonably adept amateur mechanic should attempt or is it best to take it to a mechanic?
As a plan B, is it advisable to remove the gearbox myself, and then take it to a mechanic for the fitting of the new parts?

I would like te hear from any owner who has removed a gearbox, and anyone whose replaced gearbox parts etc.

Any data on pitfalls would be gratefully received.
Thanks again,
John * Gladys

[bmcecosse]

You should simply source a good second-hand gearbox, and swap them over. That's not too difficult to do, although a bit awkward working under the car - better with two. Then - overhaul your own gearbox at leisure. However - parts are expensive and second hand boxes often are not expensive - so it may not be worth overhauling.

[minor_hickup]

Its not too bad getting the gearbox out if you're taking it out with the engine. If you don't want to remove the front panel you can remove the engine then the gearbox. It's much easier than going from underneath.

[bmcecosse]

I agree with that - but I usually get 'pelters' when I make that suggestion!

[PSL184]

As long as you remove the rad (for safety) you can disconnect the engine and box then turn engine through 90 degrees and lift out. I tried this on BMC's advice and it works a treat.

[T100SS]

Hi
I just bought a so-called recon gearbox (ebay) which, in brief, isn't unless they're all supposed to jump out of 1st and graunch like they're full of exploding marbles. It came allegedly from Buealah and was even painted & cleaned!!! (And no, i've lost the details of the seller cos it was months ago so no way to get back)

So, i have a box lying around and spanners at the ready. Given that it's the fat end of 400 quid for a recon, I'm not afraid to get up to my Yorkshire elbows in it. I certainly am hesitant about trusting used given the attrition rate.

3rd and 4th are ok in both boxes. AS I understand 1 and backwards are linked hence related racket. I'm off to price parts up and if anyone has any comments (the useful type) I'd like to hear them.

[bmcecosse]

You've been 'had' - as I'm sure you know. Your ebay records will show your purchase - I would certainly chase it up for a refund.... And yes - 3/4th are usually 'ok' - they don't get much 'stick'. First gear teeth wear like mad - but even worse wear will be on the '1st gear' teeth on the laygear. And the little dog teeth on 2nd gear take a pasting too. You may need a new layshaft and bearings for that, and t he main bearings in the 'box should be renewed -and a new syncro cone for at least 2nd gear - possibly 3rd gear too. The selector forks should be inspected for wear - if someone has been 'holding it in gear' with the lever - the fork will be badly worn. And then a new tail bushing (and ream it to size) and a new seal at the first motion shaft and at the tailshaft..... basically - it's not going to be cheap - even if you can find all the parts. A 'known good' box from a reliable source (ie a long term poster on this forum) is probably the best way to go.....