Date:         Thu, 22 Aug 2013 14:31:50 -0700
Reply-To:     Stacy Schneider <vwcrewman@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Stacy Schneider <vwcrewman@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: 88GL Tranny Swap - from manual to automatic
Comments: To: Jim Felder <jim.felder@gmail.com>
In-Reply-To:  <CAFnDXk2WWb=hiwKt45bV8UEQzvZ8atp_4mkEvSkMfqSMZj94kg@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

    It's all bolt in as mentioned . You also have to wire in a cut out
switch so it will not start in gear ,I believe there is a different coolant
tower as well . Also think about replacing the Trans cooler while you are
at it.
     It is not the hardest project I can think of ,but planning and proper
parts purchasing will make the job smoother . Most conversions I have seen
just leave the old clutch pedal in place .
      Do it and post some pictures on that other VW site .


               Stacy


On Thu, Aug 22, 2013 at 2:20 PM, Jim Felder <jim.felder@gmail.com> wrote:

> 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
> >>
> >>
>



--
   1989 Swedish Tristar with Aluminum gates and Atiwe 16" Wheels.
    Oldest son is an Eagle scout.