Thread: To holden 186 or not to holden 186?

I think I'd be keeping the original rebuilt engine and just fix your gearbox

It would be worth more to be kept original especially if it's in top condition.

Most of the bits off the older one will fit, although some may not be exactly the same. Like jerryd, I think you would do better to retain the original engine, especially since you have reconditioned it. By far the simplest thing to do would be to fix the gearbox. If it was recently overhauled, a discussion with the person who did this is probably in order! It may be a very simple fix.

If that is not productive, it is possible to fit the gearbox out of the older ute - there are a couple of catches that may exist, however. If the ute is a Series 2a not a Series 3, you will need to swap the bell housing or change the clutch mechanism - and the 2a box only has synchromesh on 3 and 4. Also, if the ute was originally a six, the bell housing will have to be swapped, as the four and six bell housings are different. But unless the ute is a Series 3 and was originally a four, fixing your original box is almost certainly easier.

John

thanks jerryd,

i have considered the value of the car with and without the engine and from that perspective it's a no brainer. i guess in my fantasy world it would be nice to have a sweet 186 on gas with an overdrive so that i actually enjoy the fact that she is my every day driver! decisions decisions!!!

thanks john,

im thinking i might take ur advice and just fix the existing box. it was the transfer case that was overhauled and not the gearbox, however another email i received said it could be as simple as the oil level in the gearbox or a syncro hub needs replacing? here's hoping!