Regarding the Getrag 260 from the 323i

[cyrmanj]

Hi all:

I found some info on the E30 Restauration Bible concerning the gear ratios of the Getrag 260 from a 323i, compared to the G260 of a 325i, the one from the 323i has shorter ratios on 1st, 2nd and 3rd gears.

Could you please confirm if this is true? Also, is the transmission from the 323i a direct fit on a 325i?

I have an opportunity to buy a G260 from a 323i and I would like to instal it on my 325i.

Thanks!

[zaust]

Direct fit fella. And yes it has shorter ratio's, But you will only really notice the 1st and 2nd when driveing.

[cyrmanj]

^ Thank you.

Yeah I think the difference is minimal and now that you are telling me that it is only noticeable on 1st and 2nd that confirms my perception.

[e301988325i]

Out of interest why you require shorter gearbox ratio's?

[cyrmanj]

^ Well, its a long story, I actually documented it on an US forum if you would like to check it let me know.

Summarizing, previous owner of my E30 due to ignorance installed a G240 on a 325i. Therefore, the gearbox is tilted, it is difficult to engage reverse and the transmission mounts do not fit as they should.

So in order to correct this I will need the proper gearbox.

I don't require a shorter gearbox, but I would prefer it for the following reasons:
1. I live in a very small country, distances are short, its mountainous, hence I consider it would be better to have a shorter gearbox. Although the difference won't be very noticeable anyway.
2. I love to track my car on the only race track in my country, its a very tight circuit favorable for shorter ratios of gearbox/differential. Track name is La Guacima, picture of my signature is from a track day in La Guacima.
3. I found a cheap 323i G260, confirmed the part # and car VIN. Cheaper than a G260 for 325i.
4. I also found a "dogleg" for M20, but sadly I don't have what it costs.

[e301988325i]

G240's were fitted to M20 b20's. . . so it should line up perfectly. if the 323 box is shorter than the stock G260 box, then you will notice a change, as the G240 is taller than the G260 in first secoond and third.

edit - these threads will be of interest to you

http://www.e30zone.net/modules.php?name ... calculator

http://www.e30zone.net/modules.php?name ... ear+ratios

[cyrmanj]

G240's were fitted to M20 b20's.

That is correct, I found that when researching due to this problem, also it fits a 318i. It fits well, however the angle of tilt is different, at least I heard that in a forum and also the support bracket (where the transmission mounts are) seems not to fit with the shell of the car and gearbox placement.

I am not discarding yet other missalignment issues on my car. I checked the subframe and it is not bent, but I am open to trial and error and to solve this from the root cause.

I appreciate your comments and suggestions.

then you will notice a change

I hope so.

Thanks!

[cyrmanj]

Update...

G260 from a 323i sucessfully installed!





The old box was from a 318is, it couples with a M42, not a M20, therefore all the mess and inconveniences I mentioned on this thread due to the different engines tilt angles.

This time the transmission mounts and cross member fitted perfectly!

Car feels faster on 2nd and 3rd as well, also the shifter feels good, without excessive play, I installed a short shifter as well.

Thanks for the help, hope this thread helps others...

[daimlerman]

Great news,pleased that you are sorted.
Andy Everitt points out in his 'Bible' that M40/42 sits at a different angle to M20,so the gearboxes,as you found out,are not interchangable!