So, 3rd gear is a grinder now and its time to consider a new transmission 
(before it gives up the ghost in the middle of nowhere).

I have a 2.1l that is pretty healthy at this time but has 120k on it. It is 
possible that in the future I would consider a 2.3l upgrade from Go Westy.

That said, after talking to Lucas, it seems that the smartest(?) move would 
be to buy a new stock 4 speed transmission with a higher geared final drive. 
In combination with 15' wheels, this raises the transmission ratio about 10% 
based on what I've read and my conversations with Lucas.

I guess I'm tossing this all out there to get opinions on what I'm 
considering. The cost of the transmission built as described is about $1,950 
after core charges are credited. This doesn't seem terribly out of line 
though I've seen transmissions range from $895 - $1,500 in various places.

I use this bad boy as an occasional daily driver, for going on trips that 
mix highway with 2 lane, and for whatever else pleases me. 

Thoughts? Cheers? Chides?

Thanks,

James