Gearbox and Cambelt.

[johnny406]

I think my gearbox is just about to give up, she's always grinding into 1st (the syncromesh has gone) and has starting in 2nd too, the cable cable is fine and it's a brand new clutch btw.

It's so annoying, everyone looks at me although I've just passed my test, even rolling up to a stop at idle and slipping in gently like I used to without grinding, does work anymore

So I shall source a new gearbox. I just have a question will a Gearbox off a Xsara VTS Phase 1 fit, I've heard these are pretty good especially if you want more power, which I might at a later stage, might stick the GTi-6 Manifold on the Inlet and Exhausts and maybe a cam regrind too but that's a big might. Or a one of those 6 speeders off the gti-6 with the superbly close ratios? heard they eat the juice though due to the higher revs.

Also the cambelt is due for a change it's on 68,887 now and even though my car was advertised with FSH, guess what I didn't get it

How much for a cambelt change and new waterpump whilst it's off? Any good estimates?

[mjb]

I just have a question will a Gearbox off a Xsara VTS Phase 1 fit

It'll fit the V6, but the ratios will be WAY off

Also the cambelt is due for a change it's on 68,887 now and even though my car was advertised with FSH, guess what I didn't get it
How much for a cambelt change and new waterpump whilst it's off? Any good estimates?

The V6 cambelt's not due until about 70,000. Getting someone to change it will cost about £600-£1500 depending on if you take it to an independent or dealer. The belt and tensioner cost about £200 on their own

[johnny406]

Erm I wish it was a V6 but it's the good old oil leak prone XU104JR 2.0

[mjb]

Yeah you kinda forgot to mention that tiiiiiiny little detail I wouldn't fit a gearbox from anything but the same car+engine as the ratios will likely be different and you' may well find the car a lot more sluggish on the road

As far as I'm aware the engine's very similar to the XU10J2TE with an extra camshaft, so getting the belt done's not going to be too pricey - £300 independent, £800 dealer. Quite possibly even less at independents due to its popularity and the likelihood the guy will have done loads of 'em before