Swapping an Aussie 3 speed gearbox to a 4 speed

[stuuuz]

Hi all,
My SWB van (running an Aussie 3 speed behind a 186 motor and highway diff) is sluggish in first gear, especially up hills. I have been doing some research and it seems the M22 low ratio Aussie 4 speed gearbox (fitted as standard equipment to LWB CF Bedfords and Holden commercial one tonners) would help with 1st gear pickup and will be a simple straight swap.

Am interested in any opinions on whether this is a good plan - as I have read that the M22 ratios can be a bit driver unfriendly, that the 4 speed shifters get stuck in gear, and that the 4 speed gearboxes aren't as tough as the 3 speed ones.

The other option is to change the diff ratio, I think mine is around 3.3-1. But I'm happy with the engine RPM at freeway speeds, so was thinking I should leave the ratio alone.

BTW does anyone have an Aussie 4 speed shifter and linkages to suit a CF Bedford they would like to sell? And possibly an M22 gearbox too ?

Any help or advice appreciated.
Stuart

[stuuuz]

Also, I know from reading Warren's post on BUGA that I can re-use my 3 speed's linkages and dummy up something for the reverse gear linkage. But just wondering if any Holden 4 speed shifter can be bolted in place of my 3 speed one or should I get one from a Bedford only ? There are Holden 4 speed shifters available on Gumtree but I don't want to get one if I will have to modify the floor or have clearance issues with the gearstick.

[6pac]

Stuart,

there is a recon one for sale here for $600

https://www.facebook.com/groups/1520222091569488/

Regards

Rhett

[rumax]

I would try the m22.... assuming it has a 3.74 1st gear over the 3.07 of the 3 speed. As for the shifter, I am sure it can be done without major floor modifications..... bit of adjustment and marty's your uncle!

[stuuuz]

Thanks for the replies. I will give the M22 a shot. I couldn't view that Facebook post as it was a closed group, I tried to join but have not heard anything back.

I found a couple of Bedford parts suppliers with CF 4 speed shifters for around $200 which seems like the right way to go as they should bolt straight in: Phil in Doveton (03) 9792 1988 has them and so does Robert in Queensland (Bedford Manor on eBay) on 0402 989 175. These guys are both CF wreckers with all kinds of stuff so are handy contacts to have for us BUGAs.

Shane at Grindrod Automotive in Moordialloc ((03) 9587 5346) is supplying a reconditioned M22 gearbox for $450. He does diffs too and is familiar with all the older stuff.

Hopefully does the trick. Thanks again.

[LS120]

i run a 4 speed 1toner behind my 202 and hq diff centre. has long legs in lower gears.