Hey Guys,

I've got an '80 with a carbed 6-port 13b and the stock 4-speed tranny. The tranny is slowly dying, so what I'm wondering is if I can get an older 13b 5-speed (from an rx-2, 3, cosmo, etc) and drop it into the SA? Are there any major differences to be aware of, is it worth the effort, or should I just try to find a 79/80 5-speed? I heard that the older trannys are the strongest (pre-86/TII) and wouldn't require the console hacking that the 81-85's do, but I'm unaware as to other possible problems. Any light that you can shed would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks!
Dave

 

Get one from 74 or newer. I found out the hard way the bolt patterns are different.

 

unless you get a rpu trans you will not be happy. One miss shift and you will bend a synchro. From then on that gear will grind unless you shift verrrry slow. Also when swapping, check the gear ratios out. If they are way different you may or may not be happy. Especially for 5th. The 79-80 had a .860 5th. Good for around town, but if you do long high speed drives you could benefit from a taller 5th gear. Rob