Since I lost my transmission last weekend I have been researching
my replacement/upgrade options. Here is my plan so far:

05 rebuilt Gertrag 6 speed for better gearing
FX100-200 or 300 clutch/flywheel package
Cusco or Quaife LSD (undecided which)

Spoke to Jan at RMW. He is favoring the Cusco as the latest and greatest.
Any one know much about Cusco upkeep? I hear the Quaife does not require maintenance.

The car is autocrossed heavily (2-3 drivers) and I cannot decide which clutch kit to order. Durability is a factor as this is my go to work car as well
but I want to upgrade if possible while it is all apart.

Anything else I should have done or look at while we are in that area?

Thanks for any replies,
Neil in Louisville

 

A Quaife ATB is gear driven; it will last the lifetime of the vehicle without maintenance and tolerate much abuse. It does tend to promote hard-throttle understeer characteristics to some extent and will not be fully beneficial if there is no traction available to one of the wheels, as on wet pavement or tire lift. It can provide great drive out of a corner and thrilling “you’ve-got-your-hands-full” launches.

Typical plate type LSDs will have more neutral on-throttle steering characteristics and would be more helpful on wet pavement. Cusco’s MINI compatible LSD hasn’t been widely available long enough to receive long term evaluations other than a few favorable post endurance races tear down reports. On paper, from a performance standpoint, it would appear the Cusco type LSD would be a better choice for auto-x, longevity not withstanding.

 

I had to swap out my 03 transmission due to a problem with a failed throw-out bearing that decided to chew its way through my input shaft. Fortunately, my mechanic was able to locate a low mileage 06 transmission with LSD. The new gearing is pretty nice, although I do sometimes miss the longer gearing in my 03. Honestly, the only thing that aggravates me about swapping to an 06 is losing the ability to use my cruise control (I suppose that's not entirely accurate, as it does work in 3rd gear... only). Just figured I'd mention that before you made the jump.

GotMINI

 

I believe the 02-04, 6 speed are good on the top end,
the 05-06 6 speed is better on the bottom end and seems to shift smoother,
02-03 for fast (top speed), and the 05-06 for quick (light to light),
that's crudely put, but the gist of it,
I have an 03 and 06 MCS. Like both.
Some of the twin charge folks like the early transmissions, But I guess it's a matter of what you like, Regards

 

We've done several of these swaps and LSD installs. If I can help or give suggestions feel free to call.

WAY
317.201.8670

 

...and my 2003 mcs 6 speed with 21K is still for sale.