Hi Lloyd,
Welcome to the list. I also own a S1 Alpine. Let me give some background on
my transmission history. When I bought the car 5 years ago, it came with a
SV syncro-transmission installed. Although the car was originally fitted for
a overdrive with the relay and column switch, the transmission was installed
without it. Included with the car was a S1 transmission and bell housing
that I assumed came from another car since it also didn't have a OD unit
attached. I later found a OD unit in some boxes. The OD unit did not have a
solenoid switch but appeared in good shape. I was investigating having the
OD unit rebuilt and installing it but found that the S5 transmission was not
the type that will accept the unit readily unless I make changes to the
outlet shaft. I finally decided to purchase a rebuilt transmission and OD
unit from a guy in the UK. I just sold the OD unit this week.
With that said, here are my thoughts. After a four-hour drive to Dayton to
attend the Invasion, I decided that highway driving without the OD was like
driving an electric razor. At 60MPH, I was turning well over 4,000RPM. Since
you mentioned that you're going to use the car just around town, maybe the
need for the OD is not necessary. Only you can decide that.
There is very little electrical components to the overdrive unit. Most parts
are available and there are a few people on the list that rebuild them as a
service. You didn't mention where you are at, but the list can surely help
you find a source for parts and service if you need them.
Wait until you hear advise from others on the list and then decide. We're
here to help.
Tim Stiffy
S1 Alpine
----- Original Message -----
From: Lloyd Elliott <lloydel@uclink4.berkeley.edu>
To: Alpine list <alpines@autox.team.net>
Sent: Monday, December 31, 2001 10:30 AM
Subject: Alpine transmission questions
> I am the new owner of a series one Alpine. Thanks to Norm Miller I found
> this list.
>
> On my car the clutch is shot and the transmission is quite "growly" in
> first gear. It would seem to make sense to replace both at the same
> time. Does anyone know where I can get a later full-syncho transmission?
>
> If I can't find one soon what are your opinions: Should I change the
> clutch and wait till I find a full-syncro later or should I give in and
> install an earlier non-syncro transmission? Are there other options? I
> plan to use it as an around town car.
>
> My present gear box has the overdrive but it doesn't work (the mechanic
> says it would need extensive rewiring). Should I give up on the
> overdrive? One well known restorer has offered to trade me straight up a
> reconditioned series 1/2 transmission for mine with the overdrive. Does
> that sound reasonable?
>
> Further info: This Alpine has a later 1725 cc engine. From the numbers
it
> seems it is from a 1969 Rapier GT. It has only one (Weber)
> carburetor. How does this engine differ those in the later Alpines?
>
> Thanks in advance for your thoughts,
>
> Lloyd
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