Date: Thu, 28 Aug 2008 20:27:33 +0000
Reply-To: rubatoguy@COMCAST.NET
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Todd Last <rubatoguy@COMCAST.NET>
Subject: Re: Locking rear differential
Steve,
I have a south African 094 2wd 5spd that I purchased from vanagain.com and had rebuilt at Weddle transmission (kind of a misleading because it was new) with a higher numerical 5th speed for lower RPM at freeway speeds. When I had it done, I had them add a syncro case with the locking diff. Cory Motors in Santa Barbara did the install along with the linkage parts for the 5 spd. (All purchased from VW)
I got the interior pieces from various sources and hooked it up just like a syncro. (Note that the vacuum diagram in Bently is not correct.)
It works fine and there is no problem with the engine driving both wheels ( Greatly simplified, you have the same amount of power - its just distributed between the two wheels rather than just one.)
It is a nice addition particulary when the occasional snow or ice hits. The locking diff is a bit of overkill considering the price, but if you are going to have your transmission rebuilt and find yourself in bad road conditions, it might be worth it.
Two other options which were not available when I had mine done would be a limited slip differential or a torquue biasing diferential. If I were to pick today I would give serious thought to the torque biasing diferential.
If I had it to do over, I would put a lower 1st gear (As it is I can start off in 2nd on a flat with a little finnesse) and a higher fifth. I believe I have a .77 fifth, I think I would go a bit higher to drop the freeway RPMs a bit more. The 5speed is SO much nicer on the hills a better spread of ratios than the 4speed. You can downshift from 5th to 4th and keep up with traffic on grades. (Well, most grades)
Todd
'88 Westy
-------------- Original message --------------
From: Steve Smith <stevesmith4947@COMCAST.NET>
> Hello,
> I'm new to the list and appreciate all the great words I read.
>
> Does anyone have experience with a locking rear differential? I'm considering
> having this done when I rebuild the tranny on my 89westy. I'm curious if you
> have found it worthwhile, worth the expense and if you have had any unanticpated
> issues since installing it. Here are a few other questions:
>
> - I live in Seattle and would like to know who did your work (there's tranny
> work and maybe alittle electrical work -- switch/wiring, yes?)
> - Where did you get the parts?
> -Does your engine (now) have enough power to 'drive' two wheels simultaneously?
> - Did you (or now would you) change any tranny gearing? (a lower 1st gear
> maybe?)
>
> Thanks to all who respond
>
> Steve