Next step is to convert the rear to disc brakes and hopefully a LSD, followed by a 4 speed conversion eventually. So if anyone knows of a reasonably priced VB-VK LSD in vic let me know please.
I've got a 3 speed in my hj with a hydraulic clutch and it's awesome. Especially cause I'm too lazy to change through too many gears
. But that has a cam, higher compression, injected head/manifold, extractors etc so it doesn't really struggle to pull the taller gear... When it's actually running lol
They have a shorter first than most 4 speeds (except m22's which only came out behind one tonners), and have a long second gear which I find really good for built up areas. Best thing is that they're so cheap.
For the diff, it would be probably similar in price to modify a live axle bw78 out of a vn-vs commodore. That way you have a near bulletproof diff, great brakes and there's the availability of aftermarket centres (and still heaps of good standard lsd centres). There's a bit of cutting and welding involved though, and the tailshaft would need work.