I am a South African citizen where parts are scarce and expensive. I have a 91 VW T3 Double cab LDV with no motor or gearbox. Would like it to be a daily driver and have power as I tow a boat. Want to fit a Th425 front wheel drive Cadillac box mated to a Lexus V8. Do not know how to get the gearbox to turn in the right direction if installed in the back. Also have no idea where to purchase such a box as there are none in SA? Any advice would be greatly appreciated Regards, Stephan
Hi Stephan!
If I understand, you want to use the Caddy transaxle to keep the engine in a north-south(front-to-rear) orientation. Correct? Just guessing I expect shipping for the transaxle will be very expensive.
Have you considered using something more common in SA, or possibly a normal FWD transaxle?
Hi Pete,thanks for the response. yes configuration must be N/S with motor rear mounted. Have looked at various local options but most would have to be mid-mounted which would take up storage space. What mods are required for Caddy box to turn in the opposite way and what does a Caddy box cost. Have considered VW box but they have become very expensive and scarce, also thought about Subaru but dont think it has enough power for towing,so yes I am up for suggestions.
In reply to Stephan:
If you need a rear-engine automatic transaxle, the only solution I can think of is a Chevy Corvair. I know people do V8 swaps in Corvairs, so I think it could work for you.
Also, you can get more details about the Corvair trans by asking in this thread.
Boat is Kona 18' 200hp Mariner, trailer - double axle. Will check Covair option. Is there no ways to convert the Caddy box?
In reply to Stephan:
I do not have any personal experience with the FWD Caddy box, but it's been stated that mechanically it's a Chevy Turbo 350 trans with a differential built into the case. You wouldn't be able to spin the trans backwards(that I know of) so the question is whether the ring & pinion could be flipped like a VW. My gut feeling is I doubt it, but I don't have enough knowledge to give you a confident answer.
Post your question on the main Grassroots Motorsports forum and you'll get more answers. Not as many people post here.
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