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Transmission conversion???

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John Loftus

John Loftus

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Charlie,

There is a tech article at Jim Werner's Healey Site that has a lot of information.

https://hometown.aol.com/bgahc/jimwerner.html

I did drive one once and it was smooth shifting but personally, I would not do it because I really like driving with an electric overdrive and like keeping things original.

Cheers,
John
 
There are some club members that have converted their Austin Healeys to a modern 5 speed. I agree most use a Toyota Supra transmission (readily available). They aren't exactly just bolt on however. If you have an early model Healey with a side shifter, you'll have to mutilate the transmission cover to accomodate the top shifter.
Most say it is quieter and don't need overdrive with the 5th gear. With the higher speed differential available also, you really can coast at high speeds. There is some lag at lower speeds, and of course you don't have that marvelous 2nd gear.
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I hear that some folks have converted the big healey stock 4 speed w/OD for a 5 speed Toyota transmission. Supposedly it just bolts on (no holes to drill) and weighs 40 pounds less. Does anyone know what Toyota transmission will fit as stated and has anyone out there done it?
 
The company is Smittys, the tranny is from the 80s vintage Supra. I haven't done it myself. those who have seem to be very happy with the mod. It is lighter, it is quiet, it is all synchro (of course), it eliminates the overdrive electrics, it takes less power to turn it, and it is very strong.
 
Hello all,
I expect that most of you drive modern 5 speed cars, but I have stuck with my Triumph 4 speed + O\D on third and fourth for twenty plus years. I did also own a 5 speed ZF car for some 12 years and still prefer the versatility and practicality of the overdrive to a 5 speed, especially as this had a dog leg to 5th. If someone offered me a 5 speed conversion for free I would not accept it.

Alec
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Charlie,

I must agree with John Loftus. Why would you and in case you would, then consider also building in a toyota engine and name it anything but NOT Healey!!

As a conservative that I am in case of classic cars, I NEVER would change my Healey away from original. Buying the one I have now, I spent quite a bundle restoring the lady to as original as possible, because some odd fellow thought things would be better once changed. Did he have a notion.

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Still changing? Then lots of luck!!

Greets

Wim
 
Hi all,
I'm really glad to hear some folks that feel the way I do about these modifications. Everytime I read about folks changing this or that for a Ford this or a Toyota that, it just reminds me of exactly why I drive old British cars and not Fords or Toyotas. I know that I am opinionated, but its a HEALEY! Yes, it came with that tranmission, and no it will never be as light, quiet, or reliable(?) as a Toyota gearbox. Decide what kind of car you want to drive, a Healey or a Toyota, and accept the fact that neither car will ever be perfect. If you want something better than a Healey, then buy something better than a Healey or better yet, buy a kit car that looks just like a Healey and do whatever you want to it; no one will care. But why modify something that is so desireable just the way it is. If these modifications are so great, why do original cars consistantly bring top dollar at auctions and sales?
One last point, I recently purchased a completely rebuilt overdrive tranny for one of my MG's for just over $1000 (no core) and if I remember correctly, the last time I checked the 5 speed conversion for the same car was over $2,200. Its your money, you can do what you like, but I for one say leave it alone and enjoy your Healey the way it is - a Healey.

I hope my strong personal feelings about preserving these cars don't offend anyone, but I just can't help myself. If others can promote changing these cars, then I see nothing wrong with someone promoting originality. I mean we're not talking Model T's here, Healeys are wonderful, fun, and extremely useable classic cars just the way they are.

Regards,

Paul
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