Hi, I have a march 2001 SDI at 102k miles with a dead gearbox and the value of the car doesn't really justify a proper refurb. I am reluctant to buy a 2nd hand sdi box as they are all weak anyway and, because of this, command a price premium. Most likely outcome is that the car goes for scrap but I am looking for options as I like the car and will keep it if I can.

 

For a Fabia, I think I know I need a cable change, hydraulic clutch box and mine being early, presumably need a box with provision for the speedo sender.

 

I am thinking of fitting a tdi box as it is potentially cheaper and stronger - I am aware that the inner cv is larger on this box.

 

I also realise the ratios are a lot different but have worked out that, in 4th, the car is actually slightly lower geared than the standard sdi box is in 5th so I am thinking of this as a 4 speed sdi gearbox that will have an (unusably ?) high 5th overdrive - though, since I only tend to drive at 60 to 65 anyway, I may yet use that ratio on the flat.

 

So - can anyone say that this box just won't fit or is it simply the issue of ratio and driveshaft hubs that stops this from being a popular change ?

 

As an associated point, would I be able to remove the driveshaft inners from my sdi gearbox and fit them to the tdi box and/or would I need to use a tdi box with associated driveshafts - always assuming that this would work ?

 

any tips welcomed !

You would need the driveshafts or at least the inner cvs