MGB Installing overdrive, 1970 MGB

[mgbnew]

Can anyone tell me what I am in for regarding having an overdrive transmission installed in my "70" MGB? I was told by someone that it would be a smart thing to think about doing. I do not drive on the highways much just because I am afraid to screw the engine up. Being a small 4 cylinder and only four gears. Has anyone done this and how do you feel about it? Was also informed that I would be looking in the range of $$$ 18 to 2,000 Canadian. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/canpatriot.GIF

 

[Radford]

Man, what a difference it has made with my 1975 B. A little better gas mileage, but when it comes to highway cruising (35 miles up I-85 in Atlanta (against traffic) - well, let me put it this way - I no longer strain to keep up with traffic.

I spent $1650.00 US for mine - completely overhauled. I think it's one of the few items I do not regret paying for.

 

[John Moore]

I love my overdrive, it does make highway crusing more comfortable. But don't worry about screwing up your engine, by driving on the highway. If it's up to snuff, it can hang out at 4000 rpm all day.

 

[usasma]

I love my overdrive too! Years ago (circa 1972) I had a 68 B without overdrive that I drove from Massachussetts to Florida on I-95 without a problem (I did stop every 1000 miles to adjust the valves, sync the carbs, and fill the carb dash pots /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[mgbmedic]

i'd like to hear all the specs. my next adventure will be installing one in a 76 B.

 

[CraigFL]

I'm in the middle of installing my OD. The engine comes out tonight.... I can't wait unil I'm crusin down the highway at 3500RPM.

 

[RF Thom]

mgbnew
If your going to do the installation yourself you will encounter one concern, the rear transmission support, or cross brace, will have to be moved to the rear position [ the body has provision for this built into it] Use a tap to clean out the threads first.
I did this to my '77 and it works great. I heard that the drive shaft is different [ shorter ] but this was not correct and bolted right up.

 

[CraigFL]

Thanks for the tip!! I wondered what that extra set of holes was for...