53 replies to this topic

[Graeme Lambert]

On phone and hungover - otherwise I'd have done a search. But can someone summarise what is involved with a 6 speed conversion, what the advantages are and what power they can reliably handle please? (null)

[Graeme Lambert]

And yes, you're right, I've got a severe case of the mission creeps at the moment!

[siztenboots]

chocolate bearings

[Graeme Lambert]

So can't handle same power as our 5 speed then?

[vocky]

chocolate bearings

this was true of the early M32 boxes, but they have changed the bearings now 

[CocoPops]

Don't do it.

 

Just ask Kieran what his has cost him, not just in money, but cancelled trackdays, trailers etc etc.

[Kieran McC]

You will need deep pockets and good sense of humour LOL 

Edited by kieranmcc, 20 December 2013 - 01:35 PM.

[Graeme Lambert]

Hmmmmmm,

Think you may have all just saved me some money.

 

Well I say saved, I'll just find another shiny thing to spend it on instead.

 

G

[Wreelybro]

Hmmmmmm,

Think you may have all just saved me some money.

 

Well I say saved, I'll just find another shiny thing to spend it on instead.

 

G

 

You can spend it on my VX if you've run out of things to buy for yours!! lol

[Tony H]

Zafira box?

[Duncan VXR]

Can be done cheaper and never abused a n/a based box but abused the astra vxr one and a lot better box imo than the f23 DG

[siztenboots]

"  [color=rgb(119,119,119);font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:12px;] Our assessment is that the gearboxes are routinely over shimmed at the factory causing premature failure due to excessive load on the bearings "[/color]

 

[color=rgb(119,119,119);font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:12px;]put m32 gearbox into google and see how common the problems are[/color]

[cnrandall]

Great gearboxes, only major consideration (which is true of lots of gearboxes in these cars) is that its a 3-shaft box and there is little airflow around them which is why they get hot and do need proper cooling.  I've been running the same box in my race car for 5 years now, changed the bearings once from precaution and never had a problem and that's with anything up to 410ft lb @ the hubs.

[Graeme Lambert]

Can be done cheaper and never abused a n/a based box but abused the astra vxr one and a lot better box imo than the f23

DG

 

 

"  [color=rgb(119,119,119);font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:12px;] Our assessment is that the gearboxes are routinely over shimmed at the factory causing premature failure due to excessive load on the bearings "[/color]

 

[color=rgb(119,119,119);font-family:Arial, sans-serif;font-size:12px;]put m32 gearbox into google and see how common the problems are[/color]

 

 

Great gearboxes, only major consideration (which is true of lots of gearboxes in these cars) is that its a 3-shaft box and there is little airflow around them which is why they get hot and do need proper cooling.  I've been running the same box in my race car for 5 years now, changed the bearings once from precaution and never had a problem and that's with anything up to 410ft lb @ the hubs.

 

 

So lots of different ideas here as to whether it's a good move or not.

 

From my point of view the box and engine are all coming out of my car (and subframe etc being removed to check for any corrosion etc) so in terms of labour there's no extra cost for 'fitting' a different box (assuming it bolts straight up).

 

I've gone through a few gearboxes in Saabs in previous years (very much a weakspot for the Swedish firm, especially their early turbocharged stuff) and understand the importance of proper cooling. Sounds like an oil cooler setup for the box would be recommended if I was to go down this route, along with a mild rebuild of the box before it goes in.

 

In reality I probably wont have the cash to do this, but I'll have a think about it. If it could have its bearings replaced for sensible money, and an oil cooler setup added then it might not be such a bad idea.

 

G

[CocoPops]

Factor in about £2.5k iirc.

 

 

[Graeme Lambert]

Factor in about £2.5k iirc.

 

 

 

For what? A mild rebuild and cooler setup? You're having a laugh aren't you?

 

At least Saab gearboxes are cheap to rebuild and replace lol

[techieboy]

It bolts straight on, that's not the problem. It's getting the right box with the right ratios in the first place and then getting hold of the mounts that are no longer available from Lotus and twatting about getting the linkage to work and modifying the gearstick for the lift up for reverse etc. It's potentially a £2k conversion that may or may not have any better longevity than the standard F23 which despite it's lower torque rating seems almost indestructible in these cars.

[CocoPops]

Yep, why do you not think more people have done it Graeme.

 

Seriously, as Matt says, it's not just a bolt on.

[techieboy]

Oh and new driveshafts. Forgot that little chestnut.

[Graeme Lambert]

Well it sounds like you've made my decision for me, thanks chaps. Naomi will be pleased

 

Now, what's your thoughts on an LSD? (actually semi serious here)