The gearbox on my petrol VRS estate has started whining after 80k miles. Only noticeable at low revs and low speed (under 10mph). It sound slike it might be the clutch release bearings but more likely gearbox bearings on the way out.

Car not been chipped or any increase in power but has been used for c8-10 towing journeys, towing my race car (Lotus Elise) which is c750KG's + the trailer. Not *that* heavy.

I've seen used MkV GTi gearboxes on eBay from breakers cost c£500-700.

Would a GTi box constitute a direct replacement?

How much for a brand spanking new box from a dealer ? I am guessing £1,500 + fitting?

Can anyone recommend a decent VW or Skoda specialist in the Thames Valley / M40 area who could fit a used box for me if new one too expensive?

Thanks, Stu

By way of follow-through, if there's anyone from Jabba / Unit18 or the like who could quote for the work...?

Before you replace it change the gear box oil and that might buy you a few more miles or even cure minor issues.

Another thing is if you can do without the car for a few days, it might be much cheaper just to have your box reworked

You do not want a new 'box from the dealer - trust me!

If your gearbox is otherwise functional then I would suggest a 'merit repair' - i.e. strip and replace worn items. You may get away with just a few bearings. You need a gearbox specialist, not a Skoda specialist. Expect to pay c.£500, most of which will be labour. You might want to budget for a new clutch too.

If the whine is not too bad, and only at low speed, then I would be inclined leave it and see how it develops. It may whine happily for many thousands of miles. Ensure the oil is topped up, there are no leaks, and consider changing to a good qaulity fully-syth oil.

The octy is supposedly "sealed for life" and we all know what that means.

It already runs on fully syth gear oil anyway, but it's worth flushing it out and refilling every 50k miles (ish) to help things keep moving smoothly.

Thanks guys. Looks like a reconditioned box is the way forwards. Following up a couple of leads locally...will post by return