V8-250 Saloon - Auto to Manual

[classiclife]

Hello,

I am currently looking at all possible options with regard to replacing the three-speed BW T35 Autobox currently in my 1968 V8-250 saloon.

To date I have a ZF4 HP22 option on the workbench and also the possibility of using a Volvo Autobox - both 4 speed.

Before making any final decisions, I would also like to look at the feasibility of converting the car from automatic to manual overdrive transmission

I have looked at historical threads pertaining to this conversion which provide elements of such a job, but now searching for more clarity as to the possible options available. Therefore, if anyone can provide information / experience of such conversions / suggestions I will be very grateful as I am on a fact gathering mission !!!

Thank you in advance.

Richard.

[Sydsmith]

Richard. When I was looking for a Daimler Jaguar back some seven or eight years ago the one thing that became clear was that manual models commanded a better price than automatics, I was lucky to find one at a good price and have enjoyed the V8 250 manual that I bought ever since, but conversions were actually worth less than originals, and in a some cases less than an auto.

My V8 250 is fitted with the original Jaguar 4 speed gearbox, which is crisp and smooth, if a bit low in 1st, which was common in all cars of the 60's.

I am only saying this because a conversion no matter how good is easily identified by the chassis number and you would be unlikely to get your money back on the cost of a conversion.

That having been said a manual version is a great joy to drive and if you cant or don't want to change to an original, a well thought out conversion could possibly be even better than the original. Syd

[classiclife]

Thanks for your reply Syd,

I agree with all those points.

My intention is to keep the car for a seriously long period of time and as such the resale of it is not of significance.

Just considering all options at the moment.

Best wishes.

Richard.

[lomh 13]

Hello Richard, my first goal, before fitting a ZF4 HP22 in my V8 250, was to adapt a Toyota W58 5 speed manual trans.
In Australia Dellow conversions as a bellhousing to adapt Toyota Supra 5 speed directly on the V8 250 an SP 250.
In NZ Conversion Componant as the same http://www.conversioncomp.co.nz/results.php
Others boxes can be used there are many exemple on the net