Automatic to Manual Transmission Swap

JohnnyO · February 20, 2016, 03:08 PM

I have a 1995 NAS Defender 90 with a 4-speed ZF automatic that I plan to swap back to the original R380 5-speed manual. I'm looking for guidance, a R380 in good shape, the clutch assembly, all the various bits to make it complete; and, a reputable shop to do the work; as well as a buyer for the old ZF, centre console, etc.; not to mention moral support and a good stiff drink.

Any and all ideas, contacts, and suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

John

Red90 · February 20, 2016, 04:28 PM

If it were me, I would bring in a box from Ashcroft. The rest of the parts are pretty cheap new.

No idea where to get the work done. Certainly worth asking around for quotes.

Trevor · February 20, 2016, 04:30 PM

Regarding the sale of the old ZF and additional bits. I'd look to some of the popular message boards in the US and try and flog it there. Much bigger demand for the NAS stuff there, and you get roughly a 35% premium on every dollar.

Matt H · February 20, 2016, 06:52 PM

You need to talk to "The Most Dangerous Man In The World".

His name is Dave.
His forum name is lovejugs (don't ask).
And he probably knows where to source everything you need, and many things you don't but would really like now you know about it, locally.

But be careful. He is very Dangerous.

headdamage · February 21, 2016, 01:01 AM

I've got a spare V8 LT77 bell housing, not sure if it fits the R380.

Red90 · February 21, 2016, 04:34 PM

Mr Jugs is on the coast with the the Inch. I would still buy a rebuilt box and the rest new based on you wanting to sell it into the states for good money. Maybe Jugs can do the work.

IMO. It would import okay without the swap but I understand the reluctance.

JohnnyO · February 21, 2016, 07:48 PM

Thanks guys for your thoughts. I've got a few things to consider. :-\

binch · February 21, 2016, 09:24 PM

Dave wasn't able to join us this weekend as his wiper box crapped out at Hinton. Too bad too....he would have enjoyed it ;)

Two sources for the newish rebuilt R380 gearbox are Ashcroft transmissions and DAVID BEAUMONT 4X4 GEARBOX SPECIALISTS up in Hull I think. Both are very good with gearboxes (ones in the north and the others in the south)

If you don't mind the commute The Sports Car Centre in Edmonton is the place I'd take it to get done. Top notch, old school mechanics that know our old landies well ;)

If you want a used R380 I can put you in touch with someone in the know ;-)

JohnnyO · February 25, 2016, 07:16 PM

Update: It turns out I don't need a transmission swap. The back ground is I'm trying to sell the NAS to an American buyer. The VIN indicates a 5-speed manual while there's actually an automatic installed. I was able to contact the original Land Rover dealer and they were able to confirm the transmission was in fact swapped out in 1998! Meanwhile, I checked with US Customs and there're OK with the LR dealer's documentation to justify the difference in the VIN. Importing should be straightforward and I don't have to shell out for a bunch of work I'll never get a chance to take advantage of. Thanks guys just the same for all the efforts. John