TR4/4A Automatic transmission in a TR4 A

[DBeliveau]

I know this is considered blasphemy in our world, but a friend of mine has a TR4 A but due to leg problems can no longer depress the clutch pedal. So I was wondering if the automatic transmission from the Stag could be used in the TR4 A. Also whether anyone out there has done this?
Thanks,
Dan

 

[malbaby]

I will start off the replies with....I do not think that the Stag has the same bell housing....Transplant a Triumph saloon 6Cyl engine and transmission [would require some fabrication at front of chassis, engine mounts etc]...The saloon bell housing is the same as the TR4, so maybe the BW35 transmission could be adapted.
The easiest option would be to convert the existing manual gearbox into a "semi automatic" by way of an electronic servo operated clutch.

 

[Geo Hahn]

Just working from (dim) memory here - but I think Steve Hedke used a auto box from a Triumph Saloon in a TR6 for his dad.

 

[Geo Hahn]

The memory was strong enough that I was sure I had read it somewhere so went looking...

It was a 1990 TRSC article reprinted in Volume 2 of TRSC's Technical Talk.

A transmission from a Triumph 2000 was used (Borg Warner model 35). Some modifications were needed of course, but the bell housing seems to have been compatible.

Dan - if you want a copy of the article PM me your email address. It isn't great detail (only 3 pages) but does highlight what had to be done.

 

[Tr6easyrider]

Geo, I don't know if it's the same car, but Phil jaegeling (Philstr6) <sjaegeling@aol.com> is the only one I know that has that setup, for his Dads' car

 

[Geo Hahn]

Okay - simpler to post it for all to see. Note this may be copyrighted material though it is from 30 years ago and a club that may have merged into something else along the way. I'll delete if anyone sees a problem.

 

[malbaby]

I will start off the replies with....I do not think that the Stag has the same bell housing....Transplant a Triumph saloon 6Cyl engine and transmission [would require some fabrication at front of chassis, engine mounts etc]...The saloon bell housing is the same as the TR4, so maybe the BW35 transmission could be adapted.
The easiest option would be to convert the existing manual gearbox into a "semi automatic" by way of an electronic servo operated clutch.

Having further thought about my last comment......it would not be the "easiest" option, as there would have to be a controlled release rate.

 

[RGK]

Another option; > Electronic Clutch For Disabled Drivers | Total Ability Australia & NZ <

 

[Basil]

Another option; > Electronic Clutch For Disabled Drivers | Total Ability Australia & NZ <

Hey Ralph, thanks for posting that link. I found it interesting and decided to post it as a "resource" in our resource section:

Electronic Clutch

 

[RGK]

I have been looking at it to add to my son's VW GTI, he had an accident and can no longer use a leg operated clutch, just cannot find much info here in the states.

 

[Basil]

I have been looking at it to add to my son's VW GTI, he had an accident and can no longer use a leg operated clutch, just cannot find much info here in the states.

If you were able to get one installed it would be interesting to hear how well it works.

 

[RGK]

I have been trying to locate someone that has one installed for their experience, somehow I think you would be limited by the electronics unless the clutch stays in as long as you hold the button. I will definitely post if I find more useful information. I have also been thinking of putting in a VW tiptronic, but they are known for problems, the GTI is a 2003, but has the advantage of being able to get rid of the clutch pedal for more room.

 

[KJP]

wondering if a period correct BW unit or whatever they used in the Automatic Sunbeam Alpine may be adapted to fit

 

[philstr6]

Heres the car that Steve build for his dad and then my dad bought it awhile back.i will look for pictures of the trannie borg warner automatic
Philstr6