Well, took my 4 speed (76 shovel) to a local indy with a great reputation, for a rebuild. The whole thing is toast - cracked case, mast of the gears are bad - I could go on. The final tally would be 1100 for a full rebuild. Hell, I could buy an import aftermarket tranny for about 1200.
My question is that 5 speeds are plentiful and cheaper than a new 4 speed - is there a way to fit a five speed on my 4 speed frame and make it work?

 

you're better off getting a 5 into 4, or something of the sort......... mounting and primary fitment will be issues with a stock 5 speed.

 

I have looked at the 5 into 4 or 6 into4 never found one that had a speedo drive. If you run one you have to go to a front wheel drive or an electronicspeedometer

 

one of my buddies installed the 5 speed trans had to build a new rear pipe, no speedometer now, and a few other issues not mentioned when he bought the thing off ebay. I haven't heard if he's got it running yet. He was disappointed about several things with the upgrade.

 

I used a "crate" 4 spd in my Evo chopper, it has performed well over the past 12+ yrs. However, the chrome really sucks on the import stuff. Mine started pealing in less than a year. I was showing the bike then and taking excellent care of it so it might be better if you can use your Harley parts and do a rebuild using USA parts. JMHO!

 

Rebuilding isnt going to be cheap and youre right the cost of parts are about the same as an import.Like you said everything is worn out once opened.Some of the imports have been reported to be fairly good.Your stocker case is cracked yet not sure where but expect it is on drive side.The decision is yours because of the costs.But let me warn youto watch for rebuilt stockers unless you know the person selling. Not all flawscan be seen looking down with ratchet lid off.

 

Ardvark, I do agree with pittguy as you should be cautious buying a rebuilt stock tranny however you said your local indy shop had a good reputation. You should be able to buy a rebuilt one for $700.-$1000. Ask the shop if they have any and see if they will stand behind there work. If you pay top dollar you should get some type of guarantee.