now sticky...

Good info Terry.  Regarding the late model boxes, last time I had to buy synchros for one they came as part of a kit which contained random other parts.  Like, I think one kit included a reverse gear and the other kit included a hub sleeve.  This seems to be what runs the costs up - the synchronizer assemblies alone aren't available for purchase (correct me if I am wrong).  I think I had about $500 just into doing synchros for 2 gears in parts.  Then add bearings etc etc and it starts getting quite pricey.

Conversion packages, not kit. Sorry.

 there are many internal changes and numerous "upgrades". without having a VIN number of the car it came out of, its hard to pre-purchase parts. we stock most of the commonly used parts and can sort out correct parts, once its apart.  a substantially worn-out pre 92 box is not worth fixing, even though the individual parts  like syncro cones are cheaply priced, there are usually too many bits needed once they are over about 150,000km.
 
 
 
if the V6 conversion had the NA box in it , then it only has the small axles and different top mount to the turbo model so you will need most of the "kit" shown above. 
I have several gearboxes. call me if interested. Up in Ipswich, not far really.
 
 
 

advice please - I need to be very careful with change up to 3rd gear with my JDM SW20 E153 gearbox.  I am considering pulling the gearbox out in  a few months to fix the 3rd gear synchro and probably 2nd gear while I'm at it.
 
While I've got the gearbox out I'm going to replace the transaxle boots.  If I've got the gearbox out, what else should I replace, gearbox seals, bearings?  Clutch plate?
 
Where do you get gearbox overhaul parts?  They seem to be rare, the only kits I could find were from Cobra Transmission in the US and I'm not sure about quality of seals etc.  I do have the new Toyota 2nd & 3rd synchro rings but nothing else.
 
Engine compression is fine, about 150psi, so I wasn't planning on dropping the engine as it looks like a much bigger job than the transmission.  Is it feasible to do any clutch work removing only the transmission?  I'm not having any clutch problems, simply wondering if I should replace it if the gearbox is out.  One part of me says that, if it's working don't disturb it.  The other part says that the part I don't replace will fail as soon as I put the car back together.
 
I will also be removing the turbo as it is blowing a bit of smoke on acceleration & uses a bit of oil.  Plus I need to do the engine timing belt and will do the water pump while I'm there.
Thanks

Yeah, if it were me, & your thinking of doing the turbo, you might as well drop the whole engine / box and do all in one hit.
 
Working on turbo removal / install is a major pain when its still in the engine bay.. not to mention, if the turbo has never been off before, then cracking some of those manifold nuts / bolts can give all sorts of grief. 
 
Most often you'll find you will need to a replace a few manifold studs whilst you are there... hopefully none of them need to be drilled out.
Drop the sump too & at least re ring it.
Regarding the clutch, best inspect 1st, you will soon see what condition its really in. Word of advice, I would never re-install a gearbox without at least replacing the release bearing too.  
 
 

OK, thanks for all the tips.  Advice from mechanic that did the compression test was that it was looking like turbo as compression was OK and the plugs looked OK.  The turbo removal looks like easier with engine & gearbox both out.  Any comment about the gearbox overhaul?  Or maybe I simply get it out and have a look and then order the bits.

Correct in Josh MR2 wreckers Australia, it is a second job/hobby/business. Email, text and when he has time, aka anything from a few hours to weeks to a month, he will get back to you.
Gearboxes are rare in good condition, best to rebuild if you know what’s needed / parts available and up to a few thousand to do it all.
Depending if you have a turbo aka e153 or non turbo aka s54? Which do you need?
Many synchros and parts are no longer available hence the price of good second hand gearbox’s has risen steeply in the past few years - however there are not many around. I jumped in early and have two gearboxes for that exact reason. Best of luck, put up a want to buy on the forum and Facebook.