504 cab modifications

[rjo504cab]

I have noticed many photos of the 504 cab with alloys. Mine is a 1973, which alloys fit (ie 505gti) and can you buy new/secondhand. How does the car feel with bigger wheels, and what effect does it have on steering (as mine is not powered)?

Also can you fit 5 speed box to the 2li engine?, if so which is best and how easy?

[504V6Ti]

There were a few models of alloy wheels for our 504CCs. First out were the Dunlop wheels available as optional extras for the 1st series. With the 2nd series TRX alloys came out (standard on V6Ti from 1981 to 1983). They exist in 2 slightly different models. There are also 15" (6J15) alloys of similar pattern to the TRX. TRX and 15" alloys were also offered on the 604 and 505. Later 505 alloys will also fit the 504.

Original wheels were 14" with 175HR14 tyres. I guess the 15" and TRX, being wider, slightly increase stability for the car, but would probably be heavier to steer at low speed than smaller and narrower wheels.

14" Dunlop

14" Amil

TRX (flat spoke)

Bicolor TRX (indented spoke)

15" 6J15 - identical design as bicolor TRX

As for a 5sp gearbox, yes they can be fitted to a 2.0l 504cc. All 2.0l XN2 504cc originally had a 4sp BA7/4 gearbox. The 5sp BA10/5 was introduced on the V6Ti in 1977 (replacing the 4sp BA10/4 of V6 carb models), which was fitted to the 2.0l models from 1980.

I know of 4 models of gearboxes, all fitted to 504s, 604s and 505s:
BA7/4 (504cc 1.8l and 2.0l) and BA7/5, BA10/4 (504cc V6 carb) and BA10/5 (504c V6Ti)

On the 504cc, changing from a 4sp to a 5sp gearbox is not a straight swap. You need to adapt the transmission shatf to the rear axle as the original one will not fit a BA10/5 or a BA7/5. You also need to pay attention to the clutch housing bell as the 504 has a hydraulic clutch. I think that the 505, on the other hand, has a cable clutch.

Now, unless your existing 4sp gearbox is dead, there is little point in replacing it by a 5sp one. You would indeed gain in terms of noise level at high speed but the financial difference in fuel consumption is negligeable. So, potentially, it is an expensive job for very little gain. If you do change your gearbox though, replace the clutch at the same time to avoid it later.

[rjo504cab]

Thanks for feedback, nice info on the gear box and as you state probably not woth the hassle.

The 505 GTI wheels look good, and as I remebered from my 505 gti way back 10 yrs ago. Any idea on best place to get hold of some (not ebay)?