Capri Gearboxes

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ChadChanning

Capri Gearboxes

Post by ChadChanning »

Well, I've been offered a 1.6 Capri for £50!! It has no rust or damage etc. but the gearbox has no first gear... thus I will need to replace the box. I haven't seen the car yet, but it's apparently a 4 speed even though it is C reg (I thought they were all Lasers by then, but nevermind!).
I don't have much money, however, and I was hoping that it would be possible to change the gearbox myself.
Is this likely to be difficult? Has anybody done this?? I have a friend with little mechanical knowledge who did it on his Escort but that's front wheel drive.I would consider upgrading to 5 speed if possible!!
Would it be better to just book it into a garage and save up for the work??

P.S. I have lots of spare time at the moment!
guitarswet
Posts: 334
Joined: Mon Jul 28, 2008 8:23 pm

Capri Gearboxes

Post by guitarswet »

Are you sure that it is a 4-speed as all laser Capris (B-reg to D-reg) have the 5 speed type N gearbox. It is an excellent gearbox and you should be able to either get it overhauled or replaced quite easily. I've never removed a Capri gearbox but I don't think it's very hard as long as you can get enough ground clearance. If you have your clutch replaced, the gearbox has to come out first and clutch replacement is not much over £100 to do!
Craig Adamson

capri 'box

Post by Craig Adamson »

I think you'll find it very easy to cahnge the 'box on that Capri. Me and my brother changed his a while back with no difficulty at all. All i would recommend is that you get the car up on four axel stands to give you plenty of room then just take your time.When we did it we found the best way was to undo everything then let it drop gently onto your chest, this may sound a bit stupid but so long as you are VERY careful you should be o.k. If your friend has got basic mechanical knowledge then between you, you should have no problem.
Gavin Adamson

Capri box.

Post by Gavin Adamson »

I seem to remember it was early February when we changed the 'box. It was freezing so my advice is change it in the summer!! Whilst the box is off you are well advised to change the clutch plate and release bearing. To not do this would be false economy. I paid £35 for what has turned out to be a very good 4 speed box. Its been on the car 3.5 years now and is still as good as new. I was quoted £105 for a specialist to supply and fit a recon box. (this was an exchange price). Also read the Haynes manual before undertaking the work. Although in my opinion these manuals are crap they do give some good advice like making sure the prop shaft goes back in exactly the same it came off.
B Irwin

Gearbox replacement

Post by B Irwin »

Capri lasers are fitted with the five speed box which is quite easy to remove and replace. The four speed box should fit though you will have to watch the clutch centre as this may be a different size/spline from the five speed though I am not certain of this. Anyway to remove the box first disconnect the battery and starter motor and remove the starter. Next (or first, suit yourself)get the car jacked up and secured in a suitable manner,proper ramps or axle stands NOT bricks blocks of wood or anything else. Now go inside the car and remove the gearlever trim and gearlever. Next go under the car and remove the four bolts connecting the propshaft to the diff, I think these are an imperial size but don't remember what but a 15mm hex socket will do the job. You may need to tap the universal joint to seperate it,be careful as if it lands on your head it will hurt(trust me on this). Next there are two 13mm bolts securing the middle u/j to the car floor remove these too. The prop shaft will now slip out of the rear of the gear box and should be placed carefully to one side. To prevent oil pissing out the hole in the back of the box I usually put a plastic bag over it and secure it with a couple of elastic bands. Remove the speedo and clutch cables.
You are now ready to undo the bellhousing bolts which secure the gearbox to the engine (17mm I think) and the 10mm bolt on the cover plate. Now remove the gearbox but be careful it is heavy especially lying on your back under a car, if you need help get it. Now fit your new box which is simply the reversal of the above proceedure.
The most important thing to remember is that your safety is of paramount importance. Never attempt a job like this on a car that is raised on jacks or on uneven ground as if this car falls it will kill or seriously maim you. If you are not confident or competent to attempt this job then dont get a local mechanic to do it as a homer or even ask if you can help to gain experience.
hope this helps
Papa
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