Date:         Fri, 18 May 2007 12:55:04 -0700
Reply-To:     BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         BenT Syncro <syncro@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Auto conversion to Manual?
Comments: To: Ron LK Johnson <adhocMedia@comcast.net>
In-Reply-To:  <7CFE4F21-EC9F-40AE-A54E-D23D4F81DACC@comcast.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; format=flowed

On 5/18/07, Ron LK Johnson <adhocMedia@comcast.net> wrote:
>
> Thanks to all who responded on the question of reducing a Full Westy
> to a Weekender (Multi Van). Out in left field question number two:
> is it possible to install a Manual transmission in a van originally
> set up for an Auto? Is there anything specific to the chassis that
> would make this especially difficult? I know a lot of changes would
> be needed - probably not worth the $$$.
> I am asking because manual Multi Vans are in short supply. I will
> probably simply go with an Auto, though prefer Manual. I understand
> there are pros/cons for Auto/Manual - mostly I enjoy the interaction
> with the vehicle - shifting can be fun!
>
> Thanks,
> Ron Johnson
> Portland, OR



Ron,

I've done the conversion to go the other way. Your best bet is to acquire a
donor vehicle rather than going piecemeal. Most of the parts required are
obvious: transmission, shifter, shiftrod, clutch parts, pedal, clutch
slave/master, axles (autos have unequal lengths). Some of the parts you
don't expect are things like floor covering, front vent cover, hose which do
not have accommodation for the tranny cooler, etc. Although it is a bolt-on
operation, it's not for a two hour project either. Oh yeah don't forget
tranny mounts, wiring back-up light. I suppose you could just by pass that
neutral safety switch. These last two switches are in the shifter box
anyway.





--
BenT