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MG MGB GT V8 Factory Originals Technical - wanting to change from manual to auto

I am wanting to replace the engine and transmission in a 78 mgb. I am wanting to stay with 4 cylinders and go to an automatic transmission. Does anyone have any suggestions on which would be the easiest swap.
Rhonda

Hello Rhonda,

I am sure you already know the 'B was available for a short time with the Borg Warner type 35 auto as an option so perhaps tracking down a car with that already fitted would be the easiest option.

If you are looking to retain the original engine then again the BW 35 is probably the easiest match.

Deviating from the original specs (and moving over to the dark side) opens up al manner of options.

Toyota 4 cyl engine / trans packages are a popular swap as are many of the Japanese engines trans combinations but I am not sure what is available there.

When you become a member (free for the filling out of an online form too by the way) you can searh the archives for pros and cons of various alternatives.

Cheers , Pete.




Peter Thomas

Pete,

as there were only very few MGB with auto box made, it will be difficult to source the parts needed. Not only the Box is differnt with all it's adapted hardware, there is also a differnt ratio at the axle, a different speedo used, ATF oil cooler, carburater linkages and brake pedal and the shifter itself with a different centre console.
The box was a B&W 35 derivate and the rear axle was the same 3.7 version as used on some MGC's.

I would also investigate whether there is a Ford auto box that might fit, as conversion kits for 5 speed Ford boxes for the MGA and MGB are offered widely, it should also be possible to find a solution using a 4 cyl. Ford auto rwd car for parts.

Ralph
Ralph

Mazda Miatas came with auto trans and the engine with standard trans is bring swapped by Grassrootes Motor sports.
They have a web sight and could answer some questions.

Good Luck
Steve
Steve

There is a gentleman here in Ca. who is installing an auto trans in his MGA which it has a 1800 B engine.
The trans that he using is from a Volvo. According to him (I believe him) He made the adapter and it fits.

I could ask him for more details if interested. Or could get his phone # for you.
Bill Guzman

bill, you missed an opportunity to "Plug" a V6 conversion. the V6 will probably get nearly the MPG a 4 cyl does. she indicated an engine, auto trans change. the 1978 is an ideal candidate for your conversion kit, OR she could consider a V8.
Wow, I could have had a V8! Ha,Ha
kelly stevenson

Rhonda,

Are you saying that you want the MGB 4 cylinder or ANY 4 Like Toyota, Mazda, Saturn, Ect.? Why only 4 if your going to convert? Fuel ecomony or what?

-BMC.
BMC Brian McCullough

Hey everybody thanks for all the great info> I know this is going to be a job and all you input is greatly appreciated. When I get the engine and tranny going I'll let you all know. This place is great! Thanks again
Rhonda Morris

Where are you located in Illinois, Rhonda?

I'm in Champaign.
rick ingram

Rhonda: On last thought: While I was at the MAMGBR meet in 1994, I met a guy who installed the TH125 from a Chevette in his MGB-GT. He said his dad redrilled the stock MGB back plate and the drive plate from the Chevette. The TH125 looked like it fit very well in the MGB and the Chevette drive plate had a ring gear that worked with the stock MGB starter.
John Perkins

hey rick im from Mt.Vernon
rhonda

This thread was discussed between 29/04/2007 and 08/05/2007

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