Hi transitfriends, here's my second posting
After a long night of reading here i think the following conversion plan is feasable. Could you please comment?
i'm looking at a 1974 mk1 LWB double wheels bullnose horsebox (originally a flatbed truck), that already has been fitted long ago with a 205 OHC petrol engine (carb and conventional ignition). Runs fine but the gearbox is RIP -deafening howling in drive, relatively silent in coasting- and also the total reduction incl rear axle is way too high for my use. The thing barely gets to 80 km/h (sorry no mph on this speedo). I need at least 95 km/h (of course without the horsebox that will be removed).
Now i suggested to the seller to put in a 5 speed box to cure two problems in one go (he did that before with his own ex german firebrigade van). And later on we can see whether the final drive has to be changed to a lower ratio, might work with the 5 box replacement only. I have read that the transmission shaft needs to be shortened and balanced, but does the rest fit together? (of course i know about the gear lever position and extra cross member, thats peanuts).
Anyone who can confirm that this is possible? maybe have experience with this combination regarding speed?
thanx in advance,
Andre.