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MG MGB GT V8 Factory Originals Technical - Volvo Automatic Transmission

I am planning on installing a Rover 3.5 in my '79 MGB.
I would like to use an automatic transmission. Has anyone used a Volvo BW55 or AW70/71 in place of the old Rover BW35??? If so, are any details available? I also have access to a Volvo 240 disk brake rear end.
DAVE
Dave Winne

Dave

The MGC used the BW T-35 transmission, and I have been looking for a more modern, 4 or 5 speed "lockup" trans that would fit the C. So far no luck. Will be interested in what this thread might bring in the way of info.

Larry
Lawrence Hallanger

Dave,to my knowledge Rover & Volvo used the same autos.The BW 35 is too bulky to fit in the trans tunnel on an MGB.The later BW65 or BW66 will fit OK but they're only 3 speed.If you use a Volvo auto, you'd need a different bellhousing. After the BW66 Rover used a GM auto GM180.HTHs Barrie E
begerton@froggy.com.au

Barrie E,
Wonder if a later model Volvo OD automatic and torque converter will bolt up to a Rover BW35 bell housing and work with the old BW35 flywheel?
DAVE
Dave Winne

hi go to this web site http://www.geocities.com/perboddum/autobox.html
this person has fitted a volvo auto to his sd1, a very good site.
MARK . A.H

I'd like to correct a very common misconception. The transmission tunnel on the MGB MKI will not accept a BW 35 transmission due to its being too narrow. However, the transmission tunnel on the MGB MKII was redesigned specifically for the purpose of fitting the BW 35.
Stephen Strange

Dave,
I don't know. It depends whether the the Volvo torque convertor has the same bolt pattern as the Rover flexiplate.
Stephen,
there are BW35s & there are BW35s.The ones fitted into MGBs & other 4cyl. cars were quite puny compared to the ones fitted into larger cars.the bell housings were part of the case casting & not separate as on the larger models.In Aust.the BW35s fitted to Ford Falcons & Chrysler Valiants were more robust than the models fitted to Rovers, Jags, Triumphs etc. I have personal experience in fitting an ex Rover BW35 into an MGB & it will just fit without any clearance & any band adjustment would be impossible in situ.I have a BW65 (ex Rover)in one of my cars which fits fine.Barrie E
begerton@froggy.com.au

This thread was discussed between 28/03/2001 and 02/04/2001

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