Dawn..The likely problem is the 1st/2nd relay lever has broken..a fairly easy fix for a trans shop like myself, but not for the average tech..If the trans is good otherwise, then , yes it can be repaired. If you can find a good used from someone like Stan Wilder, then the price would be about the same as a quick fix. A rebuild will cost $995 plus shipping and if money is tight (when isn't it) a used might be a good option. But beware..the used trans might soon have the same problem...tough choice at times... As long as your shifter feels "normal" and you are sure it isn't a linkage problem, then its likely internal. A quick repair without any warranty or other parts will run about $500 give or take just so you have an idea of what it might run. The normal failure of these is the 3/4 slider hub assy. cracks and you lose 3rd or 4th gears (or worse). Feel free to holler if I can help. Daryl of AA Transaxle Duvall, WA.(Seattle area) (425) 788-4070 1-877-377-0773 toll free http://www.aatransaxle.com (web site)
> > Date: Thu, 15 Nov 2001 19:03:54 -0800 > From: Soodrose Dawn <vwtankgirl@YAHOO.COM> > Subject: 85 Transmission questions > > Hi all, > I am new to the list and still new at being a Water > Cooled Vanagon owner. I have heard that there are > some inherent defects in the Transmissions of the > early watercooled Vanagons. The reason why I am > asking is I no longer have a first or second gear, but > third, fourth and reverse work just fine. Since I > knew that my repairs were beyond my knoledge I took it > to a local shop that had recieved many good reports. > They did try to adjust the trans/linkage and I was > there when they did this... still with no luck. I > shelled out $800 for a clutch replacement and still > owe for a master cylinder, plus need to find a > transmission for my 85 4 speed. > My original investment in the Van was $995. It is a > 1985 Vanagon GL 4 speed. All of my other VW's are > early 70's buses, but Michigan winters are cold and I > thught a good Vanagon would be a welcome from freezing > like I did. Any advice would be welcomed. > Thanks in advance. > -Dawn Stawowy > > |
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