Hi,
I would definitely go with the ribcase. If finding a good one is a problem, I
whole heartedly recommend my local parts vendor, British Auto Parts, LTD, in
Marcola, Oregon. Jim has been involved with LBCs for eons, is very knowledgable,
and absolutely honest. I bought a used ribcase from him about 3 years ago for
$400, and my mechanic insisted that it was new. He checks the used parts
carefully, and if there is a problem with it, he will either rebuild it himself,
or not sell it. The only drawback to doing business with him, is that he refuses
to go online. His phone is (541) 933-2880. There are very few people from whom I
would buy used parts sight unseen, but Jim Pocan is definitely one of them.
Kate
Rich Hill wrote:
> The engine is coming out of the Sprite soon and while it's out the
> transmission, with it's noisy 1st gear and shot 2nd synchro, is going to get
> some attention (read: be replaced!). The car is a 1960 Bugeye with 948,
> smoothcase, drum brakes, etc. So, the question is do I replace the
> smoothcase with another smoothcase or with a ribcase? I've got quotes for
> both (in the $600-$800 range, rebuilt). I like the originality of the
> smoothcase but there is also the appeal of the ribcase improvements
> (bearings, synchros, etc.). We don't plan on driving this car all that
> much, in fact I'd be surprised if it sees more than a few thousand miles a
> year, so the longevity of a smoothcase may not be much of an issue. We've
> already veoted the Datsun 5 speed option (it has to stay British).
>
> Any opinions, anyone?
>
> Thanks,
> Rich Hill
> '79 MG Midget
> '60 AH Sprite
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