MGA 5 Speed Gearbox Conversion |
The MGA is an excellent road car and a drivers delight. One of the very few criticisms of this car on modern roads is its original gearbox and low overall gearing. The standard axle ratio of 4.3/1 gives 17 mph per 1000 rpm in 4th gear. These characteristics give a very lively performance right up to maximum speed. The major drawback is apparent when cruising on motorways at 70mph for long periods. The engine rpm at this speed is 4118 rpm which is high compared to modern vehicles with 5 gears. This continuous high rpm causes increased engine wear and vibration with passenger and driver fatigue. The conversion adapts a Ford Sierra Type 9 gearbox (5 speed, 1.6L & 1.8L: 1982-91, & 2.0L: 1982-87) to the MGA 1500, 1600 MkI, MkII and twin cam engines. MGB 1800 engines can be installed with additional parts, which we can supply. The conversion is supplied as a kit complete with all parts, nuts and bolts, fitting instructions for the competent owner to fit. The Type 9 Sierra gearbox is not part of the kit but is either supplied by the owner or can be supplied from Hi-Gear Engineering Ltd. Various alternative gear ratios can be provided including a close ratio gearbox and a standard ratio gearbox with a higher first gear ratio of 2.98:1. The vehicle speedometer will need calibrating. Several companies are able to do this. Instructions on how to measure the vehicle speedometer characteristics for re-calibration are included. The Kit Comprises:
1.Cast aluminium Bell Housing.
A quickshift gear lever is supplied as standard giving a precision gear shift with reduced gear lever movement. The propeller shaft provided in the kit is to the original manufacturer's specification:
Torque: 570 Nm, 422lbft (short duration) MAXIMUM
This corresponds to 5740 engine rpm in fifth gear (ratio 0.82:1) and 7000 engine rpm in fourth gear (ratio 1:1). For any higher values of torque or speed, Hi-Gear Engineering Ltd can refer the customer to the manufacturer. The results are dramatic, relaxed cruising at 70mph and 3376 rpm in 5th gear (20.73 mph per 1000 rpm). Better acceleration due to the higher second gear of 1.97:1 (MGA 2.214:1) and synchromesh on all forward gears. Improved fuel economy is an added bonus. Kit Price £925 Plus carriage, packing and VAT.
For More Information On Our Gear Box Conversions For Classic MG Cars, Call Hi-Gear Engineering Ltd, Tel/Fax: +44(0)1332 514503 |
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Suppliers of Five Speed Conversion Kits to:
- Moss Europe
- Moss Motors
- MG Owners Club