I have fitted the GU ute gearbox into the GQ wagon. A few mods and my rig is now driving again. It revs 100rpm higher at 100km/h then before; first gear is higher and therefore better for town driving; gear changes are smoother.
MODS REQUIRED FOR FITTING
1. I had to use the GQ transfer case on the new GU gearbox, therefore the 4wd shifter had to be moded. (GQ have a linkage setup mounted on the gearbox and; GU have the gearstick mounted directly on the transfer case.) The gearstick detent had to be rotated 180 degrees and the stick had to be cut, bent and welded again. I have pics of the stick if anyone is interested.
2. A new 4wd shift quadrant plate had to be made up. The GQ plate was bolted to the gearbox whereas the GU quadrant is mounted on the transfer case. I have taken pictures and made a template of the plate if anyone is interested. The shift guide plate uses the gearbox to transfer bolts as mounts. The gearstick detent had to be rotated 180 degrees and the stick had to be cut, bent and welded again.
3. I had to cut and reseal the waterproofing around the gearsticks. I used the GU boots and sigaflexed them onto the std GQ rubber plates. This was necessary as the gearstick on the GU sits 50mm more to the back than the GQ. (More comfortable for shifting.)
4. I cut and extended the reverse signal connector on the top of the gearbox. (GQ sits at the front of the top viewing plate and GU sits at the rear.)
If ppl are interested I will post up the pics on this. Let me know?
This mod along with the Quadrant template, etc will allow ppl to fit GU or GQ gearboxes and transfer cases to their vehicles more easily than it was for me. PS - parts and price played a huge part in the reason for this mod - saved around $1000. Anyhow my carton is getting hot so I'll have to go and drink them now.
