BUGA Community

Hi all,
My SWB van (running an Aussie 3 speed behind a 186 motor and highway diff) is sluggish in first gear, especially up hills. I have been doing some research and it seems the M22 low ratio Aussie 4 speed gearbox (fitted as standard equipment to LWB CF Bedfords and Holden commercial one tonners) would help with 1st gear pickup and will be a simple straight swap.

Am interested in any opinions on whether this is a good plan - as I have read that the M22 ratios can be a bit driver unfriendly, that the 4 speed shifters get stuck in gear, and that the 4 speed gearboxes aren't as tough as the 3 speed ones.

The other option is to change the diff ratio, I think mine is around 3.3-1. But I'm happy with the engine RPM at freeway speeds, so was thinking I should leave the ratio alone.

BTW does anyone have an Aussie 4 speed shifter and linkages to suit a CF Bedford they would like to sell? And possibly an M22 gearbox too ?

Any help or advice appreciated.
Stuart

Hi fellas,
I'm in Keysborough and my van (CF short wheelbase with a poptop camper roof) is currently in Newstead (near Castlemaine) getting the roof fixed. My van's gutters are very rusty so looking at replacing the gutters and roof with a better one - it doesn't have to have a poptop btw. Just wondering if you would have anything suitable for my van ? Or if you knew anyone that might that is in the area.

I've been in contact with Ben, he has a good shell but we really don't want to cut the roof off it if we can avoid it as someone else might need it down the track.

Hoping to find something within the next seven days or so. You can call me on 0421 581 757 or email on stuuuz@gmail.com. Any help appreciated.
take care,
-Stu

1976 Bedford CF SWB for sale.

202 motor running dual fuel, auto, disc brakes and highway diff.

Good straight body, some rust on inside van floor.

$3500 negotiable as is. Call Joe for more details on 0427 792 003.

Hi All,
Joe at JB Auto has pretty much anything you could need for your Bedford CF or Ford Transit, both new and secondhand parts on offer. Prices are reasonable and friendly service. He is not an online person so am posting an ad on his behalf because he has helped me out a lot.

He is on Bennett Street in Dandenong, number is 9792-5000. Doesn't always get to the phone but worth persisting as he has a lot of good stuff that is hard to find. Or just drop by his yard, normal business hours M-F and usually Saturday too. He does mechanical work also, 33 years of experience working with these vans. Free stand-up comedy routine with every consultation... !