Date:         Wed, 24 Mar 2004 10:34:47 -0600
Reply-To:     Birkenfeld Jeff <BirkenfeldJeff@JOHNDEERE.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Birkenfeld Jeff <BirkenfeldJeff@JOHNDEERE.COM>
Subject:      Re: ok.. last time for 84 auto trans into an 89 vanagon
Comments: To: jjmojo@BLAZENET.NET
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Jesse asks:
Seems that most people think the 84 1.9 ltr. trans will bolt right into
an 89 2.1 ltr. vanagon...if anyone has done this on the list.. and know
for sure.. please contact me...

Jeff replies:
I've done it, put an '84 auto trans into an '89 about 2 years ago, still
on the road today.  Yes the starter has a different part number but both
will work interchangeably.  Don't buy another starter, support your
local electrical repair shop and take it there-almost always cheaper.  I
ended up using the '89 starter with the '84 transmission.  Replace
starter bushing in transaxle case prior to installing transmission.
Replace torque converter bushing inside torque converter prior to
installation.  Replace final drive fluid.

Make the swap, use the '89 dipstick tube for the '84 trans, replace
whatever fluid and screen is in the '84 and then top up and adjust the
throttle linkage to enable the kickdown and go.  If you spilled fluid
out of the torque converter at any time, don't be surprised if it
doesn't go when first fired up and put into gear...the torque converter
will need to fill before engaging.  If keeping the '84 trans cooler,
flush thoroughly before attaching coolant hoses.  It's tight in there
when you install the trans with cooler but it's surely doable.  Replace
the trans front rubber mounting if it looks suspect.  DON'T forget the
grounding strap!

Jesse, for the last time, it will fit and perform the same.

Good luck!
JB