Gearbox tailshaft

[Little Sunbeam]

Hi all, from the UK.  I have just joined.
I have a Talbot Sunbeam 930 engine to put in an Austin 7 Special, but alas, I think the gearbox (Avenger basically) is too long. I was wondering if the tailshaft could be shortened and the tailshaft casing be done away with?

Any views on this apparently brutal modification?

Cheers,
Martin

[oldschool]

I think that would be very difficult as the gear shift mechanism is almost as long as the tail shaft housing, so both would need shortening! The Avenger gearbox was designed for 1300 and 1600 cc engines, so over built for a 930cc modified Imp engine. Maybe easier to mate the 930cc engine to a smaller Morris Minor gearbox or just use a whole Morris Minor engine and gearbox?

[Little Sunbeam]

Hi, that's what I thought.

But Morris Minor?  Oh not in comparison with the little jewel that is the 930 engine.  I have nothing against the Morris Minor A series engine. A classic in its own way, for sure, but way too heavy for an Austin 7 chassis.  I love the idea of a Coventry Climax engine, which is effectively what the Sunbeam is.  And it's lighter than an Austin 7 too.  And much, much cheaper to work on, better looking, revvier...need I go on?
However, I think you're right about mating to a smaller gearbox and I have a Reliant 'box spare.
Thanks for your help.

Martin

[avenga]

 I would use the Coventry Climax engine just for the name

[oldschool]

Yeah the A Series motor isn't as sexy as the Coventry Climax...did go well in racing Mini's though...usually beat Imps here in NZ...that may have been due to their dodgy handling though...LOL
Just make sure you don't blow the diff with all that power Martin!!