Date:         Thu, 17 Jul 2003 17:57:59 -0700
Reply-To:     Michael Snow <mwsnow@COX.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Michael Snow <mwsnow@COX.NET>
Subject:      Re: E-bay item - 5-speed Vanagon Tranny
Comments: To: Tim Demarest <tim.demarest@POBOX.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <5.2.0.9.2.20030717184227.010b4678@mail-hub.optonline.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii; format=flowed

> I searched the archives for "5 speed" a while back, and mainly found
> references implying that it was a mythical beast...
>
> So, my questions are for anyone with actual experience:
>
> Do these truly exist, are they an adaptable replacement for a 4-speed in an
> '85 Westie?
>
> Does the fifth gear provide a better ratio for highway cruising, or is this
> tranny to give better lo-range torque?

5 speed transmissions really do exist, in 1983 diesel vans.  I have one
in my '82 Westy.  It provides a little higher top speed and keeps the
RPMs down on the highway for the 48HP diesel engine.  The gearing would
be too low for a waterboxer.  Get our your calculator and do some
figuring using the transmission info at

http://volksweb.relitech.com/helmut/GEARBOX.HTM

The USA market 5 speed for the 1983 diesels is the DX model.  Compare
final drive ratios with the factory offerings for your engine.

Mike Snow
1982 Westfalia diesel