The 3.89 may be a good ratio for the Alpine with overdrive or 5-speed but
the rear end still remains a weak link. My experience with English bearings
has not been pleasant{motorcycles and automobiles}. Every chance I have to
replace these I do. You may quote races or rallys where Rootes,MG,Triumphs
and other British products had few problems but in everyday use the picture
changes. Only my opinion but I do not think the Alpine rear end is
dependable as the Ford 8-inch. The Ford also offers a variety of gear
ratios. If I were using my Alpine for exended touring I would change the
whole drive change. I would do this for two reasons, peace of mind and parts
availability. The easiest way is to contact Joe Rodriquez inh Washington
State. He offers a bolt on conversion for a Ford V-6. It uses the FORD
8-inch rear end. Good luck ever which way you go. TC
----- Original Message -----
From: "jumpin'jan" <servaij@cris.com>
To: "Barbara Blue" <the_blues@worldnet.att.net>; "Alpine List"
<alpines@autox.team.net>
Sent: Saturday, February 24, 2001 9:09 AM
Subject: Re: Alpines for Touring
> Bill,
> You need to spend money on an overdrive tranny or a five-speed. The
> 3.89 Alpine rear end will work fine. Keep the lucus system, but I would
> replace with just new components. Has your series V been completely
> restored? It needs it for that long of a trip.
> Jan
> --
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