Merak

I purchased this transaxle for spare parts for my Maserati Merak SS but have since sold the car. The gear-train is locked up and I was unable to get the bellhousing off. The transaxle may have been in a flood. Pickup in Sacramento California area or buyer arranges shipping. The wooden container it is currently in is falling apart.

Hi All I have a 1980 Maserati Merak SS with a tired motor and bad transaxle. As most of you probably know, this car uses as transaxle similar to the one used in the early Esprits. And, similary, the transaxle is the weak link in the powertrain. The car will be a street car when I get it back on the road with occasional "spirited" driving. I had overhaled the transaxle many years ago when I was fresh out of school and not much money so I cut a few corners. I contemplated overhauling it myself again (I even found a few tools I had made in my toolbox) but I have been in contact with Harry Martins and am thinking of just buying a rebuilt unit from him. My goal is to have a transaxle that lasts. The Maserati puts out about 220 HP and the car is a lot heavier. Harry has given me some options and I am looking for input. Cryo treatment - seems like it is worth the additional cost (~$660) New R&P vs very good used R&P - Another ~$1060 dollars - not too sure on this one but I want my transaxle to be quiet and last. Quaife LSD - ~$1600 - I like the idea of this from a performance standpoint but didn't think I could justify the cost since I planed to take it easy on the transaxle to make it last. However, Harry brought up an intersting point. The LSD may actually be easier on the drivetrain since it reduces the amout of jerking around in the gearbox. I haven't thought about it from that aspect before but the logic is there. Does anyone have experience with in practice? I have aslo seen arguments that it is harder on the geartrain. I would like to have confidence in pushing the gearbox a little harder (but not abuse it). Any input would be appreciated. Also, I will get a price break if I do all 3. Thanks Sterling