Automatic gearboxes

[Ian Linden]

This one looks as if it fits 70mm and 74mm PCD, and looks cheap enough to take a flyer.

[Chris da Silva]

Thanks Ian.

I'll look into that as well. Cheers!

Chris.

[Chris da Silva]

Just had a thought ...

If Costello Engineering, the firm who are still in business (are they?) and who fitted the first automatic gearbox to the MGB V8 all those years ago, start the trend of retrofitting an automatic 3-speed box to replace the manual box in the Honda Beat and Autozam AZ-1 (and possibly the Suzuki Cappuccino EA11R's and the manual EA21R's too), that could be an eye-opener to owners of these wonderful ABC cars who are thinking of this delightful and convenient upgrade!

Nice inspiration here!

[Ian Linden]

A conversion to battery-electric could be less costly and would give the benefit of automatic transmission into the bargain - that's what I'd like to do to my Cappo. The shorter range would be no problem - how many owners undertake long-distance trips in their Caopo's?

[Chris da Silva]

Not sure about owners in the UK and/or the EU; but here in Australia, the really sad enthusiasts would go anywhere in their prized possession!

To give you an example, some Ferrari owners drive (yes, drive!) their cars from Sydney across the desert to Perth for the Ferrari Club meet! Considering Sydney is 2 time zones away, that didn't put them off!

Many members usually have their cars shipped by train to Perth where both cars and their owners enjoy a cruise trip to their destination. But only a handful of sad enthusiasts would rather clock up the mileage - they drive to Perth, spend a week here with fellow members, then drive home!

And not only Ferrari, but other marques' members too! So the Australian way of thinking is very different to what we are used to!

Chris

PS: For me, a nice drive in a collector's car is a real pleasure; but I've got to draw the line somewhere! For my ABC, I purposely keep their mileage low by going out every few weeks - about 4-6 weeks per vehicle! That keeps their mileage low and their mechanicals (engine, gearbox and diffs) in good conditions.