BrianK 106 Posted September 15, 2020 Report Share Posted September 15, 2020 I bought my car knowing that it has bad 2nd and 3rd gear synchros, BUT it came with a spare gearbox. When I bought it, the seller said that the spare was a "good" gearbox, but when I pressed him (after buying the car), he said that he didn't really know the condition of it. In fact, he had inherited the car, and the real previous owner is now deceased; so there's really no telling. With that... is there some way to determine if the gearbox is good before installing it? While I'm asking - any tips on replacing the gearbox? Does the engine have to come all the way out of the engine bay, or can I just scoot it forward a few inches while it hangs off the engine hoist? Quote Link to post Share on other sites
gusexige 2 Posted September 15, 2020 Report Share Posted September 15, 2020 I have not rebuilt a 5 speed, but have done a ford 4 speed Not really that complex. Pull the cover off and look at the dogs and synchros. Each gear has little doghouse shaped 'dogs' that the peak of the roof if you will gets rounded. Each synchro has the same that mate with the shifter hub. These start getting rounded day one, but if they stop looking like doghouse roofs and start looking like igloos: dead mainshaft bearings don't usually die. countershaft bearings do. Anyway, take the cover off and loo at what is going on. 1 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
mikeeech 349 Posted September 20, 2020 Report Share Posted September 20, 2020 The engine has to come out to get the gearbox out unfortunately. No telescopic propensity on these. 1 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
black eclat 59 Posted September 20, 2020 Report Share Posted September 20, 2020 Drain the oil and inspect for metal "fines". Use a magnet to be sure. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
gusexige 2 Posted September 23, 2020 Report Share Posted September 23, 2020 I think he is saying that he has one out of the car. Popping the lid and taking some pics of what can be seen close up in focus would allow some speculation on condition Generally the 2nd gear synchro is the most worn[since it is used more and frequently harder] 1 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
BrianK 106 Posted October 20, 2020 Author Report Share Posted October 20, 2020 (edited) The answer was pretty obvious when I finally dug the transmission out of storage and opened the case. Anyone need a paperweight? I think it's time for a W58. I believe Lotus Bits and Conversion Components are my sources for conversion kits, yes? Any other options? Edited October 20, 2020 by BrianK Quote Link to post Share on other sites
TAR 418 Posted October 20, 2020 Report Share Posted October 20, 2020 SJ Sportscars still list quite a few parts for the 5 speed gearbox. You may be able to repair it. 🙂 Quote It's getting there...... Link to post Share on other sites
The Nut 29 Posted October 27, 2020 Report Share Posted October 27, 2020 I'm sure that would polish up. Better to find out now that later. Regards to all John Quote Link to post Share on other sites
lil503 19 Posted November 21, 2020 Report Share Posted November 21, 2020 Go for a getrag or ford type 5 gearbox Brian,the lotus box is fragile to say the least,ive had my elite 12 years now,use it most days weather permiting and done four gearboxes all of them gave no prior warning ie rattles or whining just went bang locking the back wheels i put in a type 5 4 speed in 3 years ago mated to a 912 engine although a 5th gear would be nice the box has proved to be strong and reliable Quote Link to post Share on other sites
eclat22 115 Posted November 21, 2020 Report Share Posted November 21, 2020 I would 2nd the Getrag, it's the only thing I haven't broken on the Eclat race car 1 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
BrianK 106 Posted November 21, 2020 Author Report Share Posted November 21, 2020 Interesting (and valuable) to hear that you prefer the Getrag. I’ve read that the w58 gear ratios are more suited for our car, but have heard no first-hand experience. What did you use for a bell housing? The Lotus unit? I fear that (The Lotus bell housing) will be near impossible to find in the US... I believe Lotus stopped importing the Elite/Eclat/Excel before the switch to Getrag. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
eclat22 115 Posted November 21, 2020 Report Share Posted November 21, 2020 The race car is an S2 so came with the Getrag from the factory and I assume a Lotus Getrag specific bell housing. I like the Getrag but have to admit to not having driven a car with the Lotus Maxi box. With the right gear oil in it it is slick and nice to use, and well used when being raced.there appears to be similar Getrag boxes in certain Jags of the same era that could potentially be used but you would still need the bell housing or possibly and adapter making. Possibly Lotusbits might have the parts but I doubt it would be cheap and then there would be the shipping. Sorry I can't help more Dan 1 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
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