Hey all
My gearbox is very close to death.. its making all the wrong noises.
I have a Type 3 gearbox in unknown condition i can get for $100.. but i'm interested in finding a single side plate box as i plan on an engine transplant some time in the future.
My question is, does a SSP box have different (higher) ratios than a stock late Type 3?

Yes. 3.8 vs 4.1 for the diff and 1,2,3 are a bit taller

[ Edited on 19-6-2007 by VWCOOL ]

There are some exceptions. I have a SSP IRS box that has a 4.12 r&p in it....if you find an AT code IRS box, it should have the 3.88. If you have a DC code IRS box from a type III, it may have a 4.12.

Here is some info that may help a little?
http://www.partsemporium.co.uk/Gearbox%20codes.htm 

All the Type 3 IRS boxes had 4.125 final drive. Only post 8/72 (if I remember correctly) Type 1 had the 3.88 final drive. Both boxes are interchangable.

Cool.. i'm trying to find one but i don't think i'm gonna have any luck.

If your buget is limited,
you may want to try used boxes from the wreckers or classifieds untill you find one you are happy with.

Unfortunately the box you want with the 3.875 diff ratio is highly sought after
and used ones usually need the reverse idler gear replaced,
which costs more money in parts and labour.

Changing the engine and gearbox can become a chore after the second one(to try different trannies),
but is an option if a rebuilt box it out side the budget.

Well the plan is to get this type 3 box on the weekend, which is supposedly good, and then my mechanic (who used to own type 3's) is going to pull it apart and check it all out.
Hopefully it'll all go good!