For what it's worth, the guy who used to be on this list who did the Spitfire
OD conversion to his '75 left his story here:
http://www.brit.ca/~tboicey/midget/midget_overdrive.html
> From: "David Lieb" <dbl@chicagolandmgclub.com>
>
> >> And it is the only 5-speed option for the 1500...
>
> > There is a 4 speed plus overdrive that will fit the Spitfidgets,
> > essentially a 5 (or 6) speed.
>
> That would be the optional overdrive from a Spitfire. In order to
> install it, you have to jack out the sides of the trans tunnel. I
> believe it also requires driveshaft surgery. To crown it all off,
> you wind up with a planetary OD that will destroy itself if it
> accidentally engages in reverse (I know there are electrical
> nterlocks to prevent this and nothing electrical ever malfunctioned
> on a British car, but the fact remains) and it gives 0 MPG
> benefit, since the power required to operate it negates the lower
> rpm cruising speed. Plus, it is very difficult to benchtest it when
> you buy it. That is why those are generally called "overdrive
> transmissions" and seldom referred to as a "5-speed". MGB
> owners frequently wax eloquent on this subject. Plus Larry's
> remark. Much better with a "real" 5-speed.
> David Lieb
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