Hey everyone,

My name is Cody.
I am new to this forum and have been living in Australia for 2 months. I figured I would join this forum to find out some tech info from some Americans back home!

I recently just bought a 1990 Nissan Silvia ca18det, and find that when I am in the lower gears 1,2,3- when I let off the throttle, the bearings inside of the gearbox sound very rough and loud. Once I am on the throttle, the tranny sounds quiet and smooth. The previous owner told me that he drove it like this for a while with no issues, however I want to replace it as soon as possible because of my fear of getting stuck somewhere.

I have thoughts of eventually swapping to a different motor, whether it be an SR or an RB motor- with that said, what would be the transmission of choice if I eventually want to go that route? What other transmissions are compatible with the ca18det?

Also, how should I go about finding and buying one? Second hand? Rebuilt? New? What is the best bang for your buck?

A local mechanic told me that for a second hand tranny and install would run me about $1000. Now I am willing to take on the task of the install depending on how involved it is-

thanks,

Cody