Date:         Thu, 22 Aug 2013 16:20:11 -0500
Reply-To:     Jim Felder <jim.felder@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jim Felder <jim.felder@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: 88GL Tranny Swap - from manual to automatic
Comments: To: Scott Daniel <scottdaniel@turbovans.com>
In-Reply-To:  <52167E79.304@turbovans.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

John and I have been discussing this. Neither of us knew the other was
going to post about it.

Wish I were closer to your car...

Jim


On Thu, Aug 22, 2013 at 4:11 PM, Scott Daniel <scottdaniel@turbovans.com>wrote:

> two posters asking the same question ?
>
> it's a lot of work.
> need to change engine from flywheel to torque converter driveplate.
> need to swap lower engine mounting studs in block.
>
> need to run back up light wires up front to where the switch is , in the
> shift console.
>
> need to swap out pedal cluster, unless you want a clutch pedal there
> that does nothing .
> need to remove allthe clutch hydraulics..
> unless you want that stuff on the van doing nothing.  I can only stand a
> complete clean conversion myself.
>
> starter ...gotta have an AT starter of course.
> Add hoses to accomodate oil cooler/heat exchange at nose of the trans..
> or use an air type oil cooler plumbed in ...
> or a heat sink type cooler ..see FAS I think.
>
> I do have a quite decent 86 GL with original AT installation. The van is
> for sale.  Located Southern Oregon.
> Don't need thousands for it either. Needs a trans rebuild ( normal ) and
> engine going through ..
> or buy it sans engine if you want.  Just needs a good home is all, and
> it isalready an automatic, and it's not a 'mess' as 27 yr old vans go,
> not at all. Darn nice actually.
>
> Scott
>
>
> On 8/22/2013 2:00 PM, JRodgers wrote:
>
>> It appears there is among Vanagonauts who drive manual tranny vans a
>> "Bad Clutch Leg Syndrome" whereby switching to an automatic becomes
>> necessary. I am one.
>>
>> How hard could it be to make the swap? Anyone done it before? Problems?
>> Can the same engine be used? What mods are necessary? I know the axles
>> must be changed = but what else? And  how difficult?
>>
>> Thanks.
>>
>> John
>>
>>