This won't be your typical post, don't worry. Here's the deal, I'm building an off-road buggy for trail riding here in Florida. I already have an Ecotec motor that I want to use for this project. I can get an adapter to fit the Ecotec to a VW tranny, but the VW tranny's have issues. I'm exploring the possibility of using a FWD manual transmission and welding up mounts to fit it in my frame. I can handle all of the fab work, that's not a problem. I just don't know what transmission I want to use. So here's where I need your help. Here are my criteria.
Must bolt to an Ecotec motor
Must be able to handle 250ish hp with large tires (30" all terrains, I won't be trying to tear up the transmission, but I want the tranny to be able to take some abuse)
Must use cables for the shifter
Hopefully a hydraulic clutch, but I could make cable work
So what help can you guys give me?
If you can tell me what tranny's will bolt to an Ecotec, I can do some research.
I'd love to know the gear ratios in the tranny's as that may play a role in what I choose.
I'm not overly concerned about an LSD for this application because I'll be using a turning brake which will apply one of the rear brakes based on me moving a lever. Its great in the woods for tight spots, but bad for LSD's.
I joined this forum because it seems there are some pretty powerful cars here and you seem like a technical bunch. I hope you can help.
Thanks for the help
Dave
I would think about using the stock ecotec transmission. They can handle alot of power and unforunately, they are the only transmissions that bolt right up to the eco. If you can get an adapter plate made though, I would suggest using the muncie HM282 from the 2nd gen J bodies and Beretta's.
What is the make/model of the transmission for the Ecotec? Is the tranny between a N/A and forced induction Ecotec the same? I'd rather avoid an adapter plate because if I were to do that, I'd just use a VW tranny I think.
The stock eco trans is the getrag F23.
gtpsunfire wrote:I would think about using the stock ecotec transmission. They can handle alot of power and unforunately, they are the only transmissions that bolt right up to the eco. If you can get an adapter plate made though, I would suggest using the muncie HM282 from the 2nd gen J bodies and Beretta's.
Depending on which ECO variation he has, this is an untrue statement. I personally have bolted an ECO to a STOCK transmission from an Asuna Sunfire and it fit perfectly.
So GEO Storm transmissions are an option and have held 300+hp on drag cars. DD 250hp and who knows. Plus they are cheap to find and JY damn near give them away.
Before anyone bothers to call me out saying I am full of "it" ask about my on the Q4F if I know about transmission swapping and what fits what.
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Quote:
Someone in my class made a good point about Isuzu turbos...they're almost as big as GM alternators.
1992 Isuzu Rocket 2.3 HO
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If your going to be putting this in a buggie and you'd rather like cheap and abundant parts you should go with the Getrag and stay away from the Muncie. In all honesty tho, an adapter plate to VW bus trans will be your best bet. Good luck and stay away from hard to find parts. Getrag or VW bus = great options.
"Never argue with an idiot. They'll drag you down to their level, then beat you with experience!" -Anonymous
