E Series gearbox - rebuild or replace?

[Click_It]

Hi guys,

My Festiva has been off the road for awhile, long story short the reason -> dead gearbox (5 speed, E series).

I've decided it's time to get her back on the road. So my question is:

Rebuild vs replace?
Where I am in Australia I am unsure how common these old gearboxes are, I figure if I can find one that's the cheapest option, otherwise I might have to get mine rebuilt. We have the Aspire but I'm pretty sure they all use the G Series box and there's no real need to get a stronger gearbox for this car unless it's a relatively straightforward swap. I'm just after the smoothest / easiest fix.

Side note: I've found a Festiva with 27,000 miles on it, single owner, though it's an auto so ironically the only thing I can't get out of it is the gearbox. But I'm going to pick it apart and restore all the old worn parts of mine

[Rick the Quick]

But the one owner car and enjoy it all the while keep your eyes open for a good used 5 speed or rebuild yours. It may only need bearing replacement. As for synchros and gears, they show up on eBay occasionally. I'm talking NOS (new old stock)
genuine Ford parts, usually at reasonable prices.
Good Luck.