Gearbox trouble

Hi there,
I hope I can get some help/advice on a problem I have got with my car. The engine has been changed about 12 months ago and since then it run about 3000 miles. When it failed the MOT on "Nearside Steering rack gaiter split and Steering system has excessive free play detected at steering wheel" the garage changed the steering rack.

Since then, I heard a horrible clanking noise. Back to the garage, they said, the gearbox was brocken. I was given an about price of £350.00 to £450.00 to repair the gearbox. Can it be that the gearbox just breaks like that? I did not hear or noticed anything before the visit to the garage. And if so, would the price mentioned be reasonable? As I can't do the work myself, I have to take it to a garage, but I am unsure on how to detect a good one. (Basically, they can tell me anything and I would believe it as long as there are no aliens involved. )

I would like to have it back on the road as soon as possible. I have not had a proper chance of driving it since coming back from the IMM.

Thanks

Tinytom

Did the clunking start as soon as you picked the car up from the garage? Does it change gear ok? When does the clunking occur? Is it all the time or does it happen when you're turning?

I guess there's two possibilities:
1) Your gearbox has broken and needs repairing unrelated to the steering problem.

2) The garage haven't fitted the rack correctly and something is hitting that shouldn't be. Clunking is a common symptom of steering/suspension problems.

If you want to compare prices check out this site: http://www.guess-works.com/Shop/Gearbox/

HTH,
Charlie

For all you know they ballsed the rack in the first place! I would get a second and even third opinion! Dont mention what youve been told it is just say theres a knocking and see what a few other garages say!

BTW if you're in North Shropshire (i.e. not too far away from Chester ) I'll come have a look at your Scamp if you'd like a 2nd opinion....

Hi Tinytom1,

I have posted this on my local Mini group forum for you.