Greetings,
Recently my '62 TR4's factory OD gearbox started making expensive bearing noises
in third gear, so I swapped in a straight 4-speed that I had previously
acquired.
THAT gearbox makes more noise than the one I took out. The syncros and gears
seem to engage okay. It just sounds like it's about to explode when in first
and second gear.
Whatever the case,* it prevents me from enjoying the car. The gearbox seems to
be swallowing a lot of the engine's power too. The car doesn't seem as fast,
and I don't think it's because the gears are taller.
Soooo. I'm terribly frustrated. I've always hated the smell of hypoid gear oil.
This episode makes me want to go out and just buy a 911sc and be done with it.
I know one good drive in the TR will change my thinking.
My dilemma is this: My local gearbox guru who I was planning on having rebuild
the OD gearbox is out of that business. (OH why couldn't my gearbox have failed
LAST year?) He now makes an adapter kit for swapping in a toyota gearbox. Cost:
$1500 sans toyota gearbox.
Tempting, but it seems crazy to put in a toyota gearbox when I have what WAS a
nice OD gearbox sitting there. Plus, I'd have to find a used toyota gearbox
without problems.
Dare I try to fix my OD gearbox myself? Can you get decent parts for it? This is
my major concern. I have HEARD many of the gearbox parts carried by the big
three are marginal at BEST. The rebuilder I spoke to won't touch the syncro
rings they carry for example. He either uses the dwindling supply of NOS parts
or gets them from England.
Anyone know of a reputable rebuilder? My fellow here told me about this guy he
recommended. But THAT guy is in Gainesville, FL. I look out on the other ocean.
Shipping makes that transaction less cost effective.
Any thoughts? Words of encouragement? Has anyone successfully repaired their own
gearbox? Comments on the toyota gearbox conversion, good or bad? Know of a
source for quality bearings and gearbox bits for old Brit gearboxes? Anybody
want to swap a black plate California '62 TR4 with surrey top and 2 broken
gearboxes for something interesting?
-jeffrey
* pun intended
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