55superbeetle

Im putting a 12a into my starlet. I picked up a 86 na trans for it but i ran into a snag. To put the shifter in a decent position the engine would be more forward than i would like. Is a first gen trans shorter or has anybody ever shortened the shift tube?

Thanks

Jeff

Papasmurf

IF the na trans is like my TII, I literally shortened everything in 1-1.5 hours, all put back together.

Doc Holiday

iTrader: (2)

A 79 trans is shorter, it puts the shifter on top of the tailshaft, and it has the same power capacity as the trans you have now. Or, you can remove the shifter and shorten the tubes and bolt the box bax on up farther. If you get a hold of 13btnos, he has done it, and may have pics for you.

Siraniko

iTrader: (13)

Overall leght is the same on all years. The only changes are in the shifter location between pre-81, 81-85, 86+ etc etc.

rxtasy3

iTrader: (2)

i shortened an '83 for my 808. it's fairly easy if u have the mechanical ability to "see" what needs to be done.

55superbeetle

cool thats what i wanted to know. Just wanted to know if anyone has done it before so i wasn't trying the impossible

Jesuscookies

iTrader: (1)

It is very easy to do. There are a couple of threads floating around the first gen section. Just do a search, you will find all the info you need, or shortening the shifter linkage.