Uphill Speed verses Gear query

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter
Hi Peter; If I recall the torque curve on a 2-1 motor is fairly flat,you can feel when the motor is pulling correctly by varying the speed when climbing a grade and noting at what speed it occurs.
Regards
Bob
 
Sent: Monday, November 12, 2018 8:42 AM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query
 
 

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter

Hi Peter,

Sounds like you are giving it a hard time.

These are fairly torquey motors but with big wheels, they are pushing a lot of weight and they dont like to rev very high.

If you want higher revs - do a Subaru engine swap.

Cheers,

Scott

On 12/11/2018 8:42 AM, richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter


--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting
Yeah Scott,
I do plan to do a subaru swap at some stage but atm the wbx is great except on this on piece of road. 3rd too high and 2nd to low. I need a inbetween gear.  So 60kph in 2nd is hard in it?  It was only marginally better when it had the 14" wheels still couldn't hit 3rd gear on that hill and 2nd was just over 50kph then... 
It is just one of those long windy hills that the syncro as it is is not the best on..  maybe I will just slow it up a bit more...
Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 12/11/18 10:51 (GMT+10:00)
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

Hi Peter,

Sounds like you are giving it a hard time.

These are fairly torquey motors but with big wheels, they are pushing a lot of weight and they dont like to rev very high.

If you want higher revs - do a Subaru engine swap.

Cheers,

Scott

On 12/11/2018 8:42 AM, richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
 

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter


--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

Yes Peter,

They are not high revving engines the Wbx's and hence why you are getting out of puff in between.

If you dont do it often a short squirt to higher revs wont hurt.

Maybe get an after-market tacho.

I have one in my 2wd and it works well off the factory tach signal.

The tach wire is the green one on your main harness to the instrument cluster. Easy to tap into and run to your tachometer.

Then you can safely keep the engine under 4.5 thousand revs/ min.

I try and keep mine under 4k rpm.

Cheers,

Scott



On 12/11/2018 12:40 PM, richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
Yeah Scott,
I do plan to do a subaru swap at some stage but atm the wbx is great except on this on piece of road. 3rd too high and 2nd to low. I need a inbetween gear. So 60kph in 2nd is hard in it? It was only marginally better when it had the 14" wheels still couldn't hit 3rd gear on that hill and 2nd was just over 50kph then...
It is just one of those long windy hills that the syncro as it is is not the best on.. maybe I will just slow it up a bit more...
Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 12/11/18 10:51 (GMT+10:00)
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query

Hi Peter,

Sounds like you are giving it a hard time.

These are fairly torquey motors but with big wheels, they are pushing a lot of weight and they dont like to rev very high.

If you want higher revs - do a Subaru engine swap.

Cheers,

Scott

On 12/11/2018 8:42 AM, richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter


--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting
Thanks Scott



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 12/11/18 12:57 (GMT+10:00)
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

Yes Peter,

They are not high revving engines the Wbx's and hence why you are getting out of puff in between.

If you dont do it often a short squirt to higher revs wont hurt.

Maybe get an after-market tacho.

I have one in my 2wd and it works well off the factory tach signal.

The tach wire is the green one on your main harness to the instrument cluster. Easy to tap into and run to your tachometer.

Then you can safely keep the engine under 4.5 thousand revs/ min.

I try and keep mine under 4k rpm.

Cheers,

Scott

 

On 12/11/2018 12:40 PM, richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
 
Yeah Scott,
I do plan to do a subaru swap at some stage but atm the wbx is great except on this on piece of road. 3rd too high and 2nd to low. I need a inbetween gear.  So 60kph in 2nd is hard in it?  It was only marginally better when it had the 14" wheels still couldn't hit 3rd gear on that hill and 2nd was just over 50kph then... 
It is just one of those long windy hills that the syncro as it is is not the best on..  maybe I will just slow it up a bit more...
Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 12/11/18 10:51 (GMT+10:00)
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

Hi Peter,

Sounds like you are giving it a hard time.

These are fairly torquey motors but with big wheels, they are pushing a lot of weight and they dont like to rev very high.

If you want higher revs - do a Subaru engine swap.

Cheers,

Scott

On 12/11/2018 8:42 AM, richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
 

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter


--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

I have a factory tacho and use it all the time in my off road Syncro.. 
I agree with you Scott, limit revs to about 4500 rpm, with the knowledge that the 2.1 will safely go to 5000 rpm, and cruise flat roads at 130 Kph for hours.
Did it once in the rain in the back blocks of Queensland coming home from the Cape.

But you can cruise the expressway legal limit at around 4000 depending on tyre sizes.
I seldom exceed 4000, and around town often change gears at a little over 1200.
Even when in traffic and needing acceleration, I seldom exceed 3500, which would be close enough to the very economical speed for fuel consumption.


For serious hill climbing, my love is my 3.6 Porsche powered 2WD Caravelle.
Had a real thrill on my way home from a job in Victoria years ago.
I was significantly east of Melbourne, so decided to come home via Bombala, Cooma and Canberra.
Turned onto the Monaro highway at Cann River and ripped up the hill to Bombala.
Overtaking is a joy.
Did not need anything lower than 3rd gear except perhaps on a sharp turn.
Seldom exceeded 3000, with 3500 to spare.

Sorry about the self indulgence paragraph, but the conversation reminded me of the experience.

Peter






On 12 Nov 2018, at 12:57 pm, Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> wrote:



Yes Peter,

They are not high revving engines the Wbx's and hence why you are getting out of puff in between.

If you dont do it often a short squirt to higher revs wont hurt.

Maybe get an after-market tacho.

I have one in my 2wd and it works well off the factory tach signal.

The tach wire is the green one on your main harness to the instrument cluster. Easy to tap into and run to your tachometer.

Then you can safely keep the engine under 4.5 thousand revs/ min.

I try and keep mine under 4k rpm.

Cheers,

Scott

 

On 12/11/2018 12:40 PM, richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
Yeah Scott,
I do plan to do a subaru swap at some stage but atm the wbx is great except on this on piece of road. 3rd too high and 2nd to low. I need a inbetween gear.  So 60kph in 2nd is hard in it?  It was only marginally better when it had the 14" wheels still couldn't hit 3rd gear on that hill and 2nd was just over 50kph then... 
It is just one of those long windy hills that the syncro as it is is not the best on..  maybe I will just slow it up a bit more...
Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 12/11/18 10:51 (GMT+10:00)
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

Hi Peter,

Sounds like you are giving it a hard time.

These are fairly torquey motors but with big wheels, they are pushing a lot of weight and they dont like to rev very high.

If you want higher revs - do a Subaru engine swap.

Cheers,

Scott

On 12/11/2018 8:42 AM, richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
 

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter 
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter


-- 
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

-- 
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting



Also, the gear split between 2nd and 3rd is wider on a syncro gearbox than is common for other VW gearboxes.
2nd gear is the same at 2.06:1 but 3rd on a Syncro is 1.225:1 instead of the more usual 1.26:1 ratio common for most other VW 4 speed RWD transaxles. 
I also have a hill where it shows up but it is short and I don't go there often so I just let it amble up in second.
The advantage is that 3rd to 4th split is closer.

Neil.

On ‎Monday‎, ‎12‎ ‎November‎ ‎2018‎ ‎01‎:‎17‎:‎34‎ ‎PM‎ ‎AEDT, richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> wrote:


 

Thanks Scott



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 12/11/18 12:57 (GMT+10:00)
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

Yes Peter,

They are not high revving engines the Wbx's and hence why you are getting out of puff in between.

If you dont do it often a short squirt to higher revs wont hurt.

Maybe get an after-market tacho.

I have one in my 2wd and it works well off the factory tach signal.

The tach wire is the green one on your main harness to the instrument cluster. Easy to tap into and run to your tachometer.

Then you can safely keep the engine under 4.5 thousand revs/ min.

I try and keep mine under 4k rpm.

Cheers,

Scott

 

On 12/11/2018 12:40 PM, richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
 
Yeah Scott,
I do plan to do a subaru swap at some stage but atm the wbx is great except on this on piece of road. 3rd too high and 2nd to low. I need a inbetween gear.  So 60kph in 2nd is hard in it?  It was only marginally better when it had the 14" wheels still couldn't hit 3rd gear on that hill and 2nd was just over 50kph then... 
It is just one of those long windy hills that the syncro as it is is not the best on..  maybe I will just slow it up a bit more...
Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 12/11/18 10:51 (GMT+10:00)
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

Hi Peter,

Sounds like you are giving it a hard time.

These are fairly torquey motors but with big wheels, they are pushing a lot of weight and they dont like to rev very high.

If you want higher revs - do a Subaru engine swap.

Cheers,

Scott

On 12/11/2018 8:42 AM, richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
 

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter


--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

Peter,

That 3.6 Porche powered 2wd is a fantastic machine.

I'm sure everyone is jealous as am I.

As you said - its made for hills - has the correct torque curve and the higher revving engine help a lot.

You really need to drive according to the engine.

Tachos are a great way to see how hard you are pushing your van.

Be gentle on steep hills (as you can) and they should last.

Scott

On 12/11/2018 1:52 PM, Peter SCHWEINSBERG peter@peterandval.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
I have a factory tacho and use it all the time in my off road Syncro..
I agree with you Scott, limit revs to about 4500 rpm, with the knowledge that the 2.1 will safely go to 5000 rpm, and cruise flat roads at 130 Kph for hours.
Did it once in the rain in the back blocks of Queensland coming home from the Cape.

But you can cruise the expressway legal limit at around 4000 depending on tyre sizes.
I seldom exceed 4000, and around town often change gears at a little over 1200.
Even when in traffic and needing acceleration, I seldom exceed 3500, which would be close enough to the very economical speed for fuel consumption.


For serious hill climbing, my love is my 3.6 Porsche powered 2WD Caravelle.
Had a real thrill on my way home from a job in Victoria years ago.
I was significantly east of Melbourne, so decided to come home via Bombala, Cooma and Canberra.
Turned onto the Monaro highway at Cann River and ripped up the hill to Bombala.
Overtaking is a joy.
Did not need anything lower than 3rd gear except perhaps on a sharp turn.
Seldom exceeded 3000, with 3500 to spare.

Sorry about the self indulgence paragraph, but the conversation reminded me of the experience.

Peter






On 12 Nov 2018, at 12:57 pm, Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com&g t; wrote:



Yes Peter,

They are not high revving engines the Wbx's and hence why you are getting out of puff in between.

If you dont do it often a short squirt to higher revs wont hurt.

Maybe get an after-market tacho.

I have one in my 2wd and it works well off the factory tach signal.

The tach wire is the green one on your main harness to the instrument cluster. Easy to tap into and run to your tachometer.

Then you can safely keep the engine under 4.5 thousand revs/ min.

I try and keep mine under 4k rpm.

Cheers,

Scott



On 12/11/2018 12:40 PM, richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:
Yeah Scott,
I do plan to do a subaru swap at some stage but atm the wbx is great except on this on piece of road. 3rd too high and 2nd to low. I need a inbetween gear. So 60kph in 2nd is hard in it? It was only marginally better when it had the 14" wheels still couldn't hit 3rd gear on that hill and 2nd was just over 50kph then...
It is just one of those long windy hills that the syncro as it is is not the best on.. maybe I will just slow it up a bit more...
Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 12/11/18 10:51 (GMT+10:00)
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Uphill Speed verses Gear query

Hi Peter,

Sounds like you are giving it a hard time.

These are fairly torquey motors but with big wheels, they are pushing a lot of weight and they dont like to rev very high.

If you want higher revs - do a Subaru engine swap.

Cheers,

Scott

On 12/11/2018 8:42 AM, richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter


--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting




--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting
The good news is, nobody expects old kombi's to go fast uphill. Just pamper the old girl, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There's no rush. You can pass them all down the other side of the hill!
Cheers Roger,  :)


Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Roger Bayley gullyraker53@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 14/11/18 18:41 (GMT+10:00)
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

The good news is, nobody expects old kombi's to go fast uphill. Just pamper the old girl, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There's no rush. You can pass them all down the other side of the hill!

No tachometer in my van I go by sound and it likes to change into Forth at 80 km pulling uphill in third flat tack if the incline is not too steep to alow a change to top gear.  16 R70 tyres 2.1 wbx



Sent from Yahoo Mail for iPhone

On Monday, November 12, 2018, 7:42 am, richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> wrote:

 

Hello,
My Syncro is a old Telsra van 2.1 wbx has 15" wheels with BFG 75 series ATs . The speedo reads correct with a gps check.No rev counter
I drive up the Brown Mountain a few times a year and each Time I feel like I am flogging the syncro.

2nd gear I max speed at 60kph
3rd gear max 100kph

The temp does not go up much above normal and drops back quickly.

I know these motors are torquey down low but what are they like at revs? And am I about right with speed verse gearing I am selecting? 2nd max 60kph 3rd max 100kph?

Peter

Hi Roger and ALL,

A few months ago, doing the long long grind up the escarpment from Bellingen to Dorrigo, mostly 2nd gear, was no joy at all for the overladen Trakka WBX2.1 combo and no chance to view the amazing scenery. Single lane mostly, all the lead footers catching up and very impatient. Reminded me to turf out half the stuff I'm carrying!!


But then, as they say, what goes up, must come down. So the trip down same said escarpment from Walcha to Wauchope was an utter dream run come true!


My VW OEM tachometer suggests that the green painted 2000 through 4000 rpm portion of its display represents best torque range for a WBX2.1 with 14" wheels. I find it very useful to monitor the tacho for best torque range as well as synchronising roadspeed/engine revs for gear changing, with or without using the clutch (same as had to be done on T2s etc with a broken clutch cable). Love my tacho for many reasons instead of that silly big clock!


So yes, like Roger, I mostly take it easy uphill, bonus is to enjoy the view, sit mostly on middle torque range around +/- 3000 revs on undulating flat, translates as around +/- 85kmph on 15" wheels, then let her gravity roll downhill. Pays never to be in a rush in a WBX2.1! Do I need a foreign engine transplant? For so many reasons ....... NAH!


Cheers.

Ken




From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of Roger Bayley gullyraker53@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, 14 November 2018 6:41 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query
 
 

The good news is, nobody expects old kombi's to go fast uphill. Just pamper the old girl, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There's no rush. You can pass them all down the other side of the hill!

Hi Roger,

I have to agree I would like to keep the wbx as long as I can.

Does anyone have suggestions re which rev counter or type I am best to buy?

Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Ken Garratt unclekenz@hotmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 19/11/18 16:56 (GMT+10:00)
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

Hi Roger and ALL,

A few months ago, doing the long long grind up the escarpment from Bellingen to Dorrigo, mostly 2nd gear, was no joy at all for the overladen Trakka WBX2.1 combo and no chance to view the amazing scenery. Single lane mostly, all the lead footers catching up and very impatient. Reminded me to turf out half the stuff I'm carrying!!


But then, as they say, what goes up, must come down. So the trip down same said escarpment from Walcha to Wauchope was an utter dream run come true!


My VW OEM tachometer suggests that the green painted 2000 through 4000 rpm portion of its display represents best torque range for a WBX2.1 with 14" wheels. I find it very useful to monitor the tacho for best torque range as well as synchronising roadspeed/engine revs for gear changing, with or without using the clutch (same as had to be done on T2s etc with a broken clutch cable). Love my tacho for many reasons instead of that silly big clock!


So yes, like Roger, I mostly take it easy uphill, bonus is to enjoy the view, sit mostly on middle torque range around +/- 3000 revs on undulating flat, translates as around +/- 85kmph on 15" wheels, then let her gravity roll downhill. Pays never to be in a rush in a WBX2.1! Do I need a foreign engine transplant? For so many reasons ....... NAH!


Cheers.

Ken




From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of Roger Bayley gullyraker53@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, 14 November 2018 6:41 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query
 
 

The good news is, nobody expects old kombi's to go fast uphill. Just pamper the old girl, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There's no rush. You can pass them all down the other side of the hill!

Peter,

I bought my present cluster off The Samba five years ago for $US150 plus shipping, but the attached link shows a recently sold one for $US500 plus shipping!

https://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=2100637

Now if I'd bought every available cluster available five years ago .... could have made a killing now!!!
Ken




From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, 19 November 2018 5:47 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query
 
 

Hi Roger,

I have to agree I would like to keep the wbx as long as I can.

Does anyone have suggestions re which rev counter or type I am best to buy?

Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Ken Garratt unclekenz@hotmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 19/11/18 16:56 (GMT+10:00)
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

Hi Roger and ALL,

A few months ago, doing the long long grind up the escarpment from Bellingen to Dorrigo, mostly 2nd gear, was no joy at all for the overladen Trakka WBX2.1 combo and no chance to view the amazing scenery. Single lane mostly, all the lead footers catching up and very impatient. Reminded me to turf out half the stuff I'm carrying!!


But then, as they say, what goes up, must come down. So the trip down same said escarpment from Walcha to Wauchope was an utter dream run come true!


My VW OEM tachometer suggests that the green painted 2000 through 4000 rpm portion of its display represents best torque range for a WBX2.1 with 14" wheels. I find it very useful to monitor the tacho for best torque range as well as synchronising roadspeed/engine revs for gear changing, with or without using the clutch (same as had to be done on T2s etc with a broken clutch cable). Love my tacho for many reasons instead of that silly big clock!


So yes, like Roger, I mostly take it easy uphill, bonus is to enjoy the view, sit mostly on middle torque range around +/- 3000 revs on undulating flat, translates as around +/- 85kmph on 15" wheels, then let her gravity roll downhill. Pays never to be in a rush in a WBX2.1! Do I need a foreign engine transplant? For so many reasons ....... NAH!


Cheers.

Ken




From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of Roger Bayley gullyraker53@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, 14 November 2018 6:41 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query
 
 

The good news is, nobody expects old kombi's to go fast uphill. Just pamper the old girl, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There's no rush. You can pass them all down the other side of the hill!

Lots of after-market ones work.

A have a 50mm SAAS tacho in the middle of my 2wd cluster and a factory tach in the syncro.

My syncro tach doesn't currently work as it doesn't like the Subaru ECU tach signal.

However, I have purchased an upgraded tacho from Smallcar in the USA and that has been altered to suit the Suby tach signal and have a 7000rpm range.

Haven't installed it yet.

Will report back when i do.

Cheers,

Scott

On 19/11/2018 6:32 PM, Ken Garratt unclekenz@hotmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:

Peter,

I bought my present cluster off The Samba five years ago for $US150 plus shipping, but the attached link shows a recently sold one for $US500 plus shipping!

https://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=2100637

Now if I'd bought every available cluster available five years ago .... could have made a killing now!!!
Ken




From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, 19 November 2018 5:47 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query
Hi Roger,

I have to agree I would like to keep the wbx as long as I can.

Does anyone have suggestions re which rev counter or type I am best to buy?

Peter



Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------
From: "Ken Garratt unclekenz@hotmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: 19/11/18 16:56 (GMT+10:00)
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

Hi Roger and ALL,

A few months ago, doing the long long grind up the escarpment from Bellingen to Dorrigo, mostly 2nd gear, was no joy at all for the overladen Trakka WBX2.1 combo and no chance to view the amazing scenery. Single lane mostly, all the lead footers catching up and very impatient. Reminded me to turf out half the stuff I'm carrying!!


But then, as they say, what goes up, must come down. So the trip down same said escarpment from Walcha to Wauchope was an utter dream run come true!


My VW OEM tachometer suggests that the green painted 2000 through 4000 rpm portion of its display represents best torque range for a WBX2.1 with 14" wheels. I find it very useful to monitor the tacho for best torque range as well as synchronising roadspeed/engine revs for gear changing, with or without using the clutch (same as had to be done on T2s etc with a broken clutch cable). Love my tacho for many reasons instead of that silly big clock!


So yes, like Roger, I mostly take it easy uphill, bonus is to enjoy the view, sit mostly on middle torque range around +/- 3000 revs on undulating flat, translates as around +/- 85kmph on 15" wheels, then let her gravity roll downhill. Pays never to be in a rush in a WBX2.1! Do I need a foreign engine transplant? For so many reasons ....... NAH!


Cheers.

Ken




From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of Roger Bayley gullyraker53@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, 14 November 2018 6:41 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query
The good news is, nobody expects old kombi's to go fast uphill. Just pamper the old girl, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There's no rush. You can pass them all down the other side of the hill!

--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

Hey Scott,

 

If you ever want to get rid of your Syncro tach that doesn’t work with the Subaru signal, let me know! My wbx doesn’t have one but wants it 😊

 

Cheers

Gaetan

 

From: <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Reply-To: <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Monday, 19 November 2018 at 5:54 pm
To: <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

 

Lots of after-market ones work.

A have a 50mm SAAS tacho in the middle of my 2wd cluster and a factory tach in the syncro.

My syncro tach doesn't currently work as it doesn't like the Subaru ECU tach signal.

However, I have purchased an upgraded tacho from Smallcar in the USA and that has been altered to suit the Suby tach signal and have a 7000rpm range.

Haven't installed it yet.

Will report back when i do.

Cheers,

Scott

On 19/11/2018 6:32 PM, Ken Garratt unclekenz@hotmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:

 

Peter,

I bought my present cluster off The Samba five years ago for $US150 plus shipping, but the attached link shows a recently sold one for $US500 plus shipping!

https://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=2100637

Now if I'd bought every available cluster available five years ago .... could have made a killing now!!!
Ken

 


From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, 19 November 2018 5:47 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

 

Hi Roger,

 

I have to agree I would like to keep the wbx as long as I can.

 

Does anyone have suggestions re which rev counter or type I am best to buy?

 

Peter

 

 

 

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

 

-------- Original message --------

From: "Ken Garratt unclekenz@hotmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>

Date: 19/11/18 16:56 (GMT+10:00)

Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

 

Hi Roger and ALL,

A few months ago, doing the long long grind up the escarpment from Bellingen to Dorrigo, mostly 2nd gear, was no joy at all for the overladen Trakka WBX2.1 combo and no chance to view the amazing scenery. Single lane mostly, all the lead footers catching up and very impatient. Reminded me to turf out half the stuff I'm carrying!!

 

But then, as they say, what goes up, must come down. So the trip down same said escarpment from Walcha to Wauchope was an utter dream run come true!

 

My VW OEM tachometer suggests that the green painted 2000 through 4000 rpm portion of its display represents best torque range for a WBX2.1 with 14" wheels. I find it very useful to monitor the tacho for best torque range as well as synchronising roadspeed/engine revs for gear changing, with or without using the clutch (same as had to be done on T2s etc with a broken clutch cable). Love my tacho for many reasons instead of that silly big clock!

 

So yes, like Roger, I mostly take it easy uphill, bonus is to enjoy the view, sit mostly on middle torque range around +/- 3000 revs on undulating flat, translates as around +/- 85kmph on 15" wheels, then let her gravity roll downhill. Pays never to be in a rush in a WBX2.1! Do I need a foreign engine transplant? For so many reasons ....... NAH!

 

Cheers.

Ken

 


From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of Roger Bayley gullyraker53@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, 14 November 2018 6:41 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

 

 

The good news is, nobody expects old kombi's to go fast uphill. Just pamper the old girl, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There's no rush. You can pass them all down the other side of the hill!

 

--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting

I would but it only is the little electronic bit. You need all the plastic surround and face plate and needle.

Lots to find.

Sorry.

Cheers,

Scott

On 19/11/2018 9:03 PM, Gaetan lepews@me.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:

Hey Scott,

If you ever want to get rid of your Syncro tach that doesn’t work with the Subaru signal, let me know! My wbx doesn’t have one but wants it 😊

Cheers

Gaetan

From: <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of "Scott Pitcher spbconsulting@bigpond.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Reply-To: <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Date: Monday, 19 November 2018 at 5:54 pm
To: <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

Lots of after-market ones work.

A have a 50mm SAAS tacho in the middle of my 2wd cluster and a factory tach in the syncro.

My syncro tach doesn't currently work as it doesn't like the Subaru ECU tach signal.

However, I have purchased an upgraded tacho from Smallcar in the USA and that has been altered to suit the Suby tach signal and have a 7000rpm range.

Haven't installed it yet.

Will report back when i do.

Cheers,

Scott

On 19/11/2018 6:32 PM, Ken Garratt unclekenz@hotmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] wrote:

Peter,

I bought my present cluster off The Samba five years ago for $US150 plus shipping, but the attached link shows a recently sold one for $US500 plus shipping!

https://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=2100637

Now if I'd bought every available cluster available five years ago .... could have made a killing now!!!
Ken


From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of richo1166 richo1166@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, 19 November 2018 5:47 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

Hi Roger,

I have to agree I would like to keep the wbx as long as I can.

Does anyone have suggestions re which rev counter or type I am best to buy?

Peter

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy smartphone.

-------- Original message --------

From: "Ken Garratt unclekenz@hotmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia]" <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>

Date: 19/11/18 16:56 (GMT+10:00)

Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

Hi Roger and ALL,

A few months ago, doing the long long grind up the escarpment from Bellingen to Dorrigo, mostly 2nd gear, was no joy at all for the overladen Trakka WBX2.1 combo and no chance to view the amazing scenery. Single lane mostly, all the lead footers catching up and very impatient. Reminded me to turf out half the stuff I'm carrying!!

But then, as they say, what goes up, must come down. So the trip down same said escarpment from Walcha to Wauchope was an utter dream run come true!

My VW OEM tachometer suggests that the green painted 2000 through 4000 rpm portion of its display represents best torque range for a WBX2.1 with 14" wheels. I find it very useful to monitor the tacho for best torque range as well as synchronising roadspeed/engine revs for gear changing, with or without using the clutch (same as had to be done on T2s etc with a broken clutch cable). Love my tacho for many reasons instead of that silly big clock!

So yes, like Roger, I mostly take it easy uphill, bonus is to enjoy the view, sit mostly on middle torque range around +/- 3000 revs on undulating flat, translates as around +/- 85kmph on 15" wheels, then let her gravity roll downhill. Pays never to be in a rush in a WBX2.1! Do I need a foreign engine transplant? For so many reasons ........ NAH!

Cheers.

Ken


From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com> on behalf of Roger Bayley gullyraker53@gmail.com [Syncro_T3_Australia] <Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Wednesday, 14 November 2018 6:41 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Uphill Speed verses Gear query

The good news is, nobody expects old kombi's to go fast uphill. Just pamper the old girl, relax, and enjoy the scenery. There's no rush. You can pass them all down the other side of the hill!

--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting


--
Best regards, Scott Pitcher SPB Consulting
Driving kombis is the art of zen. Ignore those poor disillusioned fools in their mono-functional plastic clone cars and dig the experience.

Even a syncro with a bigger donk can't match the braking and driving dynamics of modern cars, so don't even try.

You will, however, notice that the crap-boxes diminish in your mirrors when you get into the corrugations, winding dirt roads, and snow.