Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

ttriebler · 1 January 2012 21:29

For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.

He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.

Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320

nerdnetty · 2 January 2012 03:08

Hey Guys, It appears that the 4x4 box has to be restricted to 2wd ? so not the best news for Syncro conversion but perhaps there will be a modification but not yet???

Happy New Year all..............Pete

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...> wrote:
>
> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.
>
> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.
>
> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>

kiehn38 · 2 January 2012 07:02

Hi Pete,

It bugs me somehow why we are starting to convert the whole Syncro concept. Engine I can somewhat understand, although I would possibly go with a 2.4 WBX. But converting it into a 2x4 ? Does that make any sense ? Please explain so that even I can grasp this.

Our WBXes are incredibly well built and have a super strong crankcase. In this context look at www.limbachaustralia.com and have a look for yourself. These are all engines based on our WBXes and

Do comply with aircraft specs (mags, dual ignition and the rest of it) Have a look, interesting stuff.

Hartmut

PS This concept of installing foreign equipment into a Syncro to me looks like filling your empty ILLY coffee tin with $1.99 ALDI coffee .....Hartmut

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anette
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 2:08 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hey Guys, It appears that the 4x4 box has to be restricted to 2wd ? so not the best news for Syncro conversion but perhaps there will be a modification but not yet???

Happy New Year all..............Pete

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...> wrote:
>
> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.
>
> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.
>
> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>

__________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 6759 (20120101) __________

The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.

http://www.eset.com

gregespo73 · 2 January 2012 07:48

Hart, this guy has done this mod to a two wheel drive. There is however, if you read through the thread, a guy in Queensland doing a syncro including front diff. On those Limbach engines, the type1 with a side draught stromberg is dwarfed by those beautiful turbo, water cooled head offerings. These guys would have some amazing knowledge about the wbx. Its a pity putting "aircraft" in front of any part makes it 20 times more expensive. Greg E

From: Hartmut Kiehn <hartis@live.com.au>
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 6:02 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hi Pete,

It bugs me somehow why we are starting to convert the whole Syncro concept. Engine I can somewhat understand, although I would possibly go with a 2.4 WBX. But converting it into a 2x4 ? Does that make any sense ? Please explain so that even I can grasp this.

Our WBXes are incredibly well built and have a super strong crankcase. In this context look at www.limbachaustralia.com and have a look for yourself. These are all engines based on our WBXes and

Do comply with aircraft specs (mags, dual ignition and the rest of it) Have a look, interesting stuff.

Hartmut

PS This concept of installing foreign equipment into a Syncro to me looks like filling your empty ILLY coffee tin with $1.99 ALDI coffee .....Hartmut

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anette
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 2:08 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hey Guys, It appears that the 4x4 box has to be restricted to 2wd ? so not the best news for Syncro conversion but perhaps there will be a modification but not yet???

Happy New Year all..............Pete

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...> wrote:
>
> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.
>
> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.
>
> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>

__________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 6759 (20120101) __________

The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.

http://www.eset.com

nerdnetty · 2 January 2012 08:15

Hart, Yes i agree with where your comming from as i have had trouble free motoring from my Syncros actually better than my previous 6 kombis but thought i would note that this box wont work 4x4 in our Syncros. In case someone ordered one without reading the fine detail after reading it on a Syncro post ?

I like the look of those vw motors and as you say they must have runs on the board for reliability. Wonder what the times are for maintanance and replacement of cranks rods and valves personaly the lifters and cams are possibly the first to go i think ?

Have a bit of hang gliding experence, 25 years, and look foward to catching up on some of your flying stories one day when i get down to your nic of the woods. Did you know the 80 yr old lady who had the heavy landing on the weekend < I hope shes ok and gets airborne again > Ive seen an article about her before and she must be a legend
Like the German test pilot who flew into here old old age forget her name
Best Regards Pete

> >
>

kiehn38 · 2 January 2012 08:21

Pete no I have not met the lady, but I am confident that she will be airborne again.

Hanna Reitsch, testpilot .

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anette
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 7:16 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hart, Yes i agree with where your comming from as i have had trouble free motoring from my Syncros actually better than my previous 6 kombis but thought i would note that this box wont work 4x4 in our Syncros. In case someone ordered one without reading the fine detail after reading it on a Syncro post ?

I like the look of those vw motors and as you say they must have runs on the board for reliability. Wonder what the times are for maintanance and replacement of cranks rods and valves personaly the lifters and cams are possibly the first to go i think ?

Have a bit of hang gliding experence, 25 years, and look foward to catching up on some of your flying stories one day when i get down to your nic of the woods. Did you know the 80 yr old lady who had the heavy landing on the weekend < I hope shes ok and gets airborne again > Ive seen an article about her before and she must be a legend
Like the German test pilot who flew into here old old age forget her name
Best Regards Pete

> >
>

kiehn38 · 2 January 2012 08:31

Greg, unfortunately the company has been sold lock stock barrel to China. I did my repair/maintainer course there about 20 yrs back. Got a Typ 1 2ltr in my biplane but need barrels/pistons/ gasket set

$ 4400.-- that’s why I am not flying the thing. Hart

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of greg esposito
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 6:49 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hart, this guy has done this mod to a two wheel drive. There is however, if you read through the thread, a guy in Queensland doing a syncro including front diff. On those Limbach engines, the type1 with a side draught stromberg is dwarfed by those beautiful turbo, water cooled head offerings. These guys would have some amazing knowledge about the wbx. Its a pity putting "aircraft" in front of any part makes it 20 times more expensive. Greg E

From: Hartmut Kiehn <hartis@live.com.au>
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 6:02 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hi Pete,

It bugs me somehow why we are starting to convert the whole Syncro concept. Engine I can somewhat understand, although I would possibly go with a 2.4 WBX. But converting it into a 2x4 ? Does that make any sense ? Please explain so that even I can grasp this.

Our WBXes are incredibly well built and have a super strong crankcase. In this context look at www.limbachaustralia.com and have a look for yourself. These are all engines based on our WBXes and

Do comply with aircraft specs (mags, dual ignition and the rest of it) Have a look, interesting stuff.

Hartmut

PS This concept of installing foreign equipment into a Syncro to me looks like filling your empty ILLY coffee tin with $1.99 ALDI coffee .....Hartmut

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anette
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 2:08 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hey Guys, It appears that the 4x4 box has to be restricted to 2wd ? so not the best news for Syncro conversion but perhaps there will be a modification but not yet???

Happy New Year all..............Pete

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...> wrote:
>
> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.
>
> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.
>
> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>

__________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 6759 (20120101) __________

The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.

http://www.eset.com

gregespo73 · 2 January 2012 08:55

Not the standard mahle fair than? How do the pistons and liners differ from the car stuff? Do you have to reco after so many hours flying? What comp ratio do they run on av gas? Sorry too many questions. Greg E

From: Hartmut Kiehn <hartis@live.com.au>
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 7:31 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Greg, unfortunately the company has been sold lock stock barrel to China. I did my repair/maintainer course there about 20 yrs back. Got a Typ 1 2ltr in my biplane but need barrels/pistons/ gasket set

$ 4400.-- that’s why I am not flying the thing. Hart

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of greg esposito
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 6:49 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hart, this guy has done this mod to a two wheel drive. There is however, if you read through the thread, a guy in Queensland doing a syncro including front diff. On those Limbach engines, the type1 with a side draught stromberg is dwarfed by those beautiful turbo, water cooled head offerings. These guys would have some amazing knowledge about the wbx. Its a pity putting "aircraft" in front of any part makes it 20 times more expensive. Greg E

From: Hartmut Kiehn <hartis@live.com.au>
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 6:02 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hi Pete,

It bugs me somehow why we are starting to convert the whole Syncro concept. Engine I can somewhat understand, although I would possibly go with a 2.4 WBX. But converting it into a 2x4 ? Does that make any sense ? Please explain so that even I can grasp this.

Our WBXes are incredibly well built and have a super strong crankcase. In this context look at www.limbachaustralia.com and have a look for yourself. These are all engines based on our WBXes and

Do comply with aircraft specs (mags, dual ignition and the rest of it) Have a look, interesting stuff.

Hartmut

PS This concept of installing foreign equipment into a Syncro to me looks like filling your empty ILLY coffee tin with $1.99 ALDI coffee .....Hartmut

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anette
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 2:08 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hey Guys, It appears that the 4x4 box has to be restricted to 2wd ? so not the best news for Syncro conversion but perhaps there will be a modification but not yet???

Happy New Year all..............Pete

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...> wrote:
>
> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.
>
> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.
>
> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>

__________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 6759 (20120101) __________

The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.

http://www.eset.com

kiehn38 · 2 January 2012 09:16

Liners pistons 90mm ,liners are NICASIL (weight reduction) . Engine life in comm. situations is 1500 hrs in private use unlimited. They run Mogas min 95 or Avgas. Comp ratio 8.4 Hart

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of greg esposito
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 7:56 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Not the standard mahle fair than? How do the pistons and liners differ from the car stuff? Do you have to reco after so many hours flying? What comp ratio do they run on av gas? Sorry too many questions. Greg E

From: Hartmut Kiehn <hartis@live.com.au>
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 7:31 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Greg, unfortunately the company has been sold lock stock barrel to China. I did my repair/maintainer course there about 20 yrs back. Got a Typ 1 2ltr in my biplane but need barrels/pistons/ gasket set

$ 4400.-- that’s why I am not flying the thing. Hart

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of greg esposito
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 6:49 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hart, this guy has done this mod to a two wheel drive. There is however, if you read through the thread, a guy in Queensland doing a syncro including front diff. On those Limbach engines, the type1 with a side draught stromberg is dwarfed by those beautiful turbo, water cooled head offerings. These guys would have some amazing knowledge about the wbx. Its a pity putting "aircraft" in front of any part makes it 20 times more expensive. Greg E

From: Hartmut Kiehn <hartis@live.com.au>
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 6:02 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hi Pete,

It bugs me somehow why we are starting to convert the whole Syncro concept. Engine I can somewhat understand, although I would possibly go with a 2.4 WBX. But converting it into a 2x4 ? Does that make any sense ? Please explain so that even I can grasp this.

Our WBXes are incredibly well built and have a super strong crankcase. In this context look at www.limbachaustralia.com and have a look for yourself. These are all engines based on our WBXes and

Do comply with aircraft specs (mags, dual ignition and the rest of it) Have a look, interesting stuff.

Hartmut

PS This concept of installing foreign equipment into a Syncro to me looks like filling your empty ILLY coffee tin with $1.99 ALDI coffee .....Hartmut

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anette
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 2:08 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hey Guys, It appears that the 4x4 box has to be restricted to 2wd ? so not the best news for Syncro conversion but perhaps there will be a modification but not yet???

Happy New Year all..............Pete

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...> wrote:
>
> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.
>
> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.
>
> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>

__________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 6759 (20120101) __________

The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.

http://www.eset.com

turbovan2001 · 2 January 2012 19:39

What does an aircraft converted waterboxer engine cost anyway...

about $ 12,000 US ........?
( could even be more ...anything for an airplane costs 4 times what we consider normal in cars. Even upgraded wing tip lights or whatever could cost $ 4,000 in the aircraft world..just for a simple small upgrade...if it's fully legal of course . )

probably anyway.

aircraft engines have completely different requirements compared to car engines.

one route, if you are determined to stay VW and German ..

would various iterations of VW's inline four gas engines.. ( and tdi's of course )

and peole have done VR6's in T3 vans..

and VW V-6 engines into T3 vans. This last one seems like a natural to me . I have seen on in a Syncro Doka .with one from a Passat I think ................it looked and worked quite well I believe.

Scott

www.turbovans.com

----- Original Message -----

From: Hartmut Kiehn

To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com

Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2012 11:02 PM

Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hi Pete,

It bugs me somehow why we are starting to convert the whole Syncro concept. Engine I can somewhat understand, although I would possibly go with a 2.4 WBX. But converting it into a 2x4 ? Does that make any sense ? Please explain so that even I can grasp this.

Our WBXes are incredibly well built and have a super strong crankcase. In this context look at www.limbachaustralia.com and have a look for yourself. These are all engines based on our WBXes and

Do comply with aircraft specs (mags, dual ignition and the rest of it) Have a look, interesting stuff.

Hartmut

PS This concept of installing foreign equipment into a Syncro to me looks like filling your empty ILLY coffee tin with $1.99 ALDI coffee .....Hartmut

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Anette
Sent: Monday, 2 January 2012 2:08 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Vanagon Subaru 5 speed conversion complete

Hey Guys, It appears that the 4x4 box has to be restricted to 2wd ? so not the best news for Syncro conversion but perhaps there will be a modification but not yet???

Happy New Year all..............Pete

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...> wrote:
>
> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.
>
> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.
>
> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>

__________ Information from ESET NOD32 Antivirus, version of virus signature database 6759 (20120101) __________

The message was checked by ESET NOD32 Antivirus.

http://www.eset.com

bergodaz · 2 January 2012 23:47

Hi & happy new year to all. I can understand how there is a need for this sort of conversion for engines with more power and for vans in the states because they only got 4 speed trannies in their Vanagons. All the Aussie vans with water cooled engines got 5speeds.Im sure there will be a demand in the USA for such a great product. My 2cents worth anyway. Eddie Bergodaz.

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...> wrote:
>
> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed transmission.
>
> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first impressions on driving it.
>
> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>
> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>

syncro · 3 January 2012 00:34

They had 5 speeds the same as here except the early ones.

> eddie <bergodaz@ozemail.com.au> wrote:
>
> Hi & happy new year to all. I can understand how there is a need for
> this sort of conversion for engines with more power and for vans in the
> states because they only got 4 speed trannies in their Vanagons. All the
> Aussie vans with water cooled engines got 5speeds.Im sure there will be
> a demand in the USA for such a great product. My 2cents worth anyway.
> Eddie Bergodaz.
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@...>
> wrote:
> >
> > For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has
> finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed
> transmission.
> >
> > He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first
> impressions on driving it.
> >
> > Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
> >
> > http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
> >

bergodaz · 3 January 2012 11:28

Phill, I meant their 2wd vans had 4 speed trannies.Just checked on the samba & all 2wd up to 1991 seem to have 4 speeds. Cheers, Eddie.

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, plander@... wrote:
>
> They had 5 speeds the same as here except the early ones.
>
>
>
> > eddie <bergodaz@...> wrote:
> >
> > Hi & happy new year to all. I can understand how there is a need for
> > this sort of conversion for engines with more power and for vans in the
> > states because they only got 4 speed trannies in their Vanagons. All the
> > Aussie vans with water cooled engines got 5speeds.Im sure there will be
> > a demand in the USA for such a great product. My 2cents worth anyway.
> > Eddie Bergodaz.
> > --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@>
> > wrote:
> > >
> > > For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has
> > finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed
> > transmission.
> > >
> > > He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first
> > impressions on driving it.
> > >
> > > Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
> > >
> > > http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
> > >
>

bentbutstr8 · 3 January 2012 11:44

Eddie,

Although rare, we did get 5-speeds in the US. They are most commonly found in 1983 Diesel powered models. Since the final drive in the 5-speed trans for the WBX was the one in the 4-speed, the only real gain was smaller RPM gaps between gears. Bear in mind that the speed limit on US highways during the production period of the Vanagon was 55mph. The 4-speeds were more than adequate to the task.

Even with the current speed limit of 65mph, the WBX is still reasonably comfortable with the 4-speed. As a consequence, few people want to spend money converting to a 5-speed. The cost can run as much as the typical purchase price of a complete running 2wd Vanagon. The exception I could
think of are those repowering to Subaru engines. They get gears designed to work with their engine. Additionally, savings would be realised by eliminating the need to purchase adapters/bellhousings to install the Subie engine.

Regards,

BenT

On Jan 3, 2012, at 3:28 AM, "eddie" <bergodaz@ozemail.com.au> wrote:

> Phill, I meant their 2wd vans had 4 speed trannies.Just checked on the samba & all 2wd up to 1991 seem to have 4 speeds. Cheers, Eddie.
>
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, plander@... wrote:
>>
>> They had 5 speeds the same as here except the early ones.
>>
>>
>>
>>> eddie <bergodaz@...> wrote:
>>>
>>> Hi & happy new year to all. I can understand how there is a need for
>>> this sort of conversion for engines with more power and for vans in the
>>> states because they only got 4 speed trannies in their Vanagons. All the
>>> Aussie vans with water cooled engines got 5speeds.Im sure there will be
>>> a demand in the USA for such a great product. My 2cents worth anyway.
>>> Eddie Bergodaz.
>>> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@>
>>> wrote:
>>>>
>>>> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has
>>> finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5 speed
>>> transmission.
>>>>
>>>> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first
>>> impressions on driving it.
>>>>
>>>> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>>>>
>>>> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>>>>
>>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

syncro · 3 January 2012 20:06

No, all 2.1 engines had 5 speeds. I'm not sure about the 1.9. Samba is nothing but garbage.
If they didn't have 5 speeds then they wouldn't be in the Bentley manual.

Phill

> eddie <bergodaz@ozemail.com.au> wrote:
>
> Phill, I meant their 2wd vans had 4 speed trannies.Just checked on the
> samba & all 2wd up to 1991 seem to have 4 speeds. Cheers, Eddie.
>
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, plander@... wrote:
> >
> > They had 5 speeds the same as here except the early ones.
> >
> >
> >
> > > eddie <bergodaz@...> wrote:
> > >
> > > Hi & happy new year to all. I can understand how there is a need for
>
> > > this sort of conversion for engines with more power and for vans in
> the
> > > states because they only got 4 speed trannies in their Vanagons. All
> the
> > > Aussie vans with water cooled engines got 5speeds.Im sure there will
> be
> > > a demand in the USA for such a great product. My 2cents worth
> anyway.
> > > Eddie Bergodaz.
> > > --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@>
>
> > > wrote:
> > > >
> > > > For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has
> > > finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5
> speed
> > > transmission.
> > > >
> > > > He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first
> > > impressions on driving it.
> > > >
> > > > Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
> > > >
> > > > http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
> > > >
> >

bergodaz · 3 January 2012 21:57

Phill, 4speeds are in the bentley's too. Look at Go Westy & do a bit of reading about 5 speed trannies. Check the price vs the syncro price & check where their cores come from. I don't know how to get official VAG data but all the evidence points to 4 speed boxes for US petrol powered vans. Sorry for harping on about 2wd on this forum. Eddie.

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, plander@... wrote:
>
> No, all 2.1 engines had 5 speeds. I'm not sure about the 1.9. Samba is nothing but garbage.
> If they didn't have 5 speeds then they wouldn't be in the Bentley manual.
>
> Phill
>
>
>
> > eddie <bergodaz@...> wrote:
> >
> > Phill, I meant their 2wd vans had 4 speed trannies.Just checked on the
> > samba & all 2wd up to 1991 seem to have 4 speeds. Cheers, Eddie.
> >
> > --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, plander@ wrote:
> > >
> > > They had 5 speeds the same as here except the early ones.
> > >
> > >
> > >
> > > > eddie <bergodaz@> wrote:
> > > >
> > > > Hi & happy new year to all. I can understand how there is a need for
> >
> > > > this sort of conversion for engines with more power and for vans in
> > the
> > > > states because they only got 4 speed trannies in their Vanagons. All
> > the
> > > > Aussie vans with water cooled engines got 5speeds.Im sure there will
> > be
> > > > a demand in the USA for such a great product. My 2cents worth
> > anyway.
> > > > Eddie Bergodaz.
> > > > --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@>
> >
> > > > wrote:
> > > > >
> > > > > For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has
> > > > finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5
> > speed
> > > > transmission.
> > > > >
> > > > > He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first
> > > > impressions on driving it.
> > > > >
> > > > > Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
> > > > >
> > > > > http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
> > > > >
> > >
>

syncro · 3 January 2012 22:20

Yes Eddie, I think that you may be correct. I was looking at the wrong book.
Phill

(I still hate Samba)

bentbutstr8 · 3 January 2012 22:24

As far as I know, no 2.1 WBX equipped T3's were officially sold in the US with the exception of Syncros.

I have owned about 30 Vanagons not counting models not officially delivered by VW to the US market. None had 5-speeds. Of the several thousand 2wd T3's w/ 2.1's (originally imported by VW), none were originally delivered with 5-speeds. If there are any 2wd 5-speeds here, it would be extremely rare.

The Bentley might be the bible to many but is not infallible. In the time over a decade I have been on the Vanagon List, several mistakes in the 'green bible' were pointed out. Bentley had a representative who gleaned the List for updates and corrections. As far as production details, the Bentley would be the last place I would rely on.;-)

BenT

sent from my electronic leash

On Jan 3, 2012, at 12:06 PM, plander@optusnet.com.au wrote:

> No, all 2.1 engines had 5 speeds. I'm not sure about the 1.9. Samba is nothing but garbage.
> If they didn't have 5 speeds then they wouldn't be in the Bentley manual.
>
> Phill
>
>
>
>> eddie <bergodaz@ozemail.com.au> wrote:
>>
>> Phill, I meant their 2wd vans had 4 speed trannies.Just checked on the
>> samba & all 2wd up to 1991 seem to have 4 speeds. Cheers, Eddie.
>>
>> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, plander@... wrote:
>>>
>>> They had 5 speeds the same as here except the early ones.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>> eddie <bergodaz@...> wrote:
>>>>
>>>> Hi & happy new year to all. I can understand how there is a need for
>>
>>>> this sort of conversion for engines with more power and for vans in
>> the
>>>> states because they only got 4 speed trannies in their Vanagons. All
>> the
>>>> Aussie vans with water cooled engines got 5speeds.Im sure there will
>> be
>>>> a demand in the USA for such a great product. My 2cents worth
>> anyway.
>>>> Eddie Bergodaz.
>>>> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "ttriebler" <ttriebler@>
>>
>>>> wrote:
>>>>>
>>>>> For those of you that are interested, David Clymer in Seattle has
>>>> finished the first Vanagon install with a Subarugears reversed 5
>> speed
>>>> transmission.
>>>>>
>>>>> He has coupled it to an EJ25 and poste up a video of his first
>>>> impressions on driving it.
>>>>>
>>>>> Here's the build thread, the video is on the last page.
>>>>>
>>>>> http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=407222&start=320
>>>>>
>>>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>

syncro · 3 January 2012 22:30

. As far as production details, the Bentley would be the last place I would rely on.;-)

Second last.

Samba would be last.

bentbutstr8 · 3 January 2012 22:35

I'm not a big Samba fan either. But it is a good resource for other things. I especially dislike the T3 forum where the moderator deletes postings at will and w/o notice or explanation of the reason to the author.

BenT

sent from my samba

On Jan 3, 2012, at 2:30 PM, plander@optusnet.com.au wrote:

>
> . As far as production details, the Bentley would be the last place I would rely on.;-)
>
> Second last.
>
> Samba would be last.
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>