Automatic Gearbox

Post by **Kevin** » Fri May 23, 2003 8:46 am

Yes I have seen this done on a Saloon but was unable to speak to the owner to ask how it was done, I think a Borg Warner box was used

Post by **Cam** » Fri May 23, 2003 12:59 pm

If there was an automatic version of the Marina / Ital 1.3 then that would be an ideal source.

Post by **les** » Fri May 23, 2003 11:11 pm

There is/was an auto version of the Marina/Ital

Post by **fweddy** » Sat May 24, 2003 8:59 am

Are you running a std minor engine? if so would it have what it takes to drive an auto?

Often in NZ & Aust the Datsun engines were used for uprating to 1250cc as they made a real nice conversion but I'm not sure that I have heard of any of those mods with autos. Normally they used the Datsun 5 spd gearbox too.

Post by **rayofleamington** » Sat May 24, 2003 2:53 pm

If you can find the datsun with an auto, then that would be possible.

For running the Marina/Ital auto the best option is to run the original type of engine with the box. It's always a risk when the engine is not matched to the transmission, and you may end up worse off.

Most Europeans don't want auto's with small capacity engines so I'm not sure you'll find someone who has done it .
(not saying it hasn't been done, but they will be rare)

Post by **Gareth** » Sat May 24, 2003 3:32 pm

As for the mods required to perform the swap, you'll most likely have to alter the transmission tunnel, either to accommodate the new shifter, or the possible extra width of the auto unit. You may need to alter the crossmember and propshaft as well.

Post by **Cam** » Sat May 24, 2003 11:45 pm

Les,

Yes, I believe that there was an auto version of the Ital / Marina but it was the 1.3 that I was specifically referring to.

If there was a 1.3 auto, then this would be ideal and quite easy to swap. The engine bay would look quite original too.

I personally am not a big fan of autos, but it would make an interesting project!!

Post by **les** » Mon May 26, 2003 9:33 pm

The auto Marina/Ital that I posted does refer to the 1275cc version, in fact the Minor that sprang to mind when this topic was raised is also fitted with an lpg conversion.

Post by **Kevin** » Fri May 30, 2003 11:50 am

Hi all, just to prove one still exists I came across this in Loot
Morris Ital Auto

1981, genuine 14k miles, FSH, MOT Sep, tax Aug, excellent cond, nearside brake pads need replacing,
Contact details: 0161-654 6414 or 07763 323803 Price: £380
If the ad is true its a cheap car and shows how low their value is

Post by **Cam** » Fri May 30, 2003 1:08 pm

Is that car a 1.3?? as it is not specified in the advert, if so it might be a good proposition to start hacking about! If not, it's best left alone!

Post by **Kevin** » Sat May 31, 2003 4:10 pm

I will check when I am back at work as for some reason I cannot view the full Loot ads from home as I just get blank box`s

Post by **Gareth** » Sat May 31, 2003 5:49 pm

Just had a look, Kevin.

The advert doesn't specify the engine size, and by now it's 10 days old. There is always the chance that it could be long gone.