Today I had a very interesting discussion with a firm who import and factor from the US. Their suggestion is the Torqueflite 518 4 speed which is a straight bolt on to the LA engine. 3.5 inch longer, so shorten the prop and a bit of tunnel panelwork....brackets etc, use the Hydraulic control version (it went electric control mid '90's.) Ratios are same as the 3 speed +0.69 o/d in 4th which can be a manual switch or easily pedal/vac controlled. Delivered in gwo for under £500. So now I have two 'simple' starting options, Diff or gearbox? Maybe both, but that would take me to over 40mph/1000rpm! That could be too much for the stock engine, but they make a very persuasive argument for sticking with the carb 360 engine and with a simple 'modernisation' rebuild deliver oodles more torque and no (direct comparisons) economy loss.... Anyone with experience out there?
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