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Date:         Sun, 16 Nov 2014 19:53:54 -0400
Reply-To:     Robert Fisher <garciasghostvw@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Robert Fisher <garciasghostvw@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: 87 Westy 2WD -- only reverse gear in automatic transmission
              works
Comments: To: Rick Cooper <rickdcooper@gmail.com>
In-Reply-To:  <CAG12ait6uT56Urw+D9cDP_MobFMXOdrf6YV6+a3tH=zV7wEHPw@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8

It doesn't require any special tools - you need to set the brake band tension in inch pounds, but that's about it. If you've rebuilt engines you can do this, and I'm 98% sure that you are correct in that it's the forward clutch.

Earlier today I described the process to someone as "painstaking". You have to be particularly clean and well-organized. The fluid in the case and internals will want to get all over everything. I did most of my work in a large Rubbermaid bin lid lined with plastic. I took a picture every time I did something - every stage, every time (and it saved my ass later).

You may want to go in for a reconditioned valve body if it appears to need it (how many miles are on this tranny, do you know?). It isn't necessarily likely, but it's an option. Cleaning the VB requires the most care and attention (and lint free cloths) imo.

I would always replace the TC in doing this - the one you have is full of friction lining material and other crap that you won't be able to get out; it's my pet theory that that's the stuff that causes the cold shifting problem these things get right before they die (choking up the vanes in the TC until it gets warm(er) and they free up).

The last time I got parts for an overhaul I got them from www.makcotransmissionparts.com and www.wittrans.com (I think because I couldn't get everything at one place). The standard rebuild kit doesn't quite have everything you need, so you need to make a comprehensive list.

Alternately, you could get a rebuilt from German Transaxle (which is of course much more expensive than rolling your own).

Keep us posted!

On Sun, Nov 16, 2014 at 6:20 PM, Rick Cooper <rickdcooper@gmail.com> wrote:

> Just bought an 1987 2WD Westy with a faulty automatic transmission. Fell > in love with these things this past summer but could not afford a nice, > clean one so I picked up this one last week instead. It's in lovely shape > but only reverse gear works. There is no forward motion in any of 1, 2 or > D, though with both rear wheels off the ground, they will spin slowly. > Based on the chart in the Bentley, looks like this could be the forward > clutch, but I know darn little about these things. > > Looks like I'm gonna have to fix this since my wife refuses to see the > country backwards. Being the curious type, I'm wondering whether I dare > try taking it apart myself. Anyone have experience with rebuilding these? > I've overhauled a couple of engines but never touched an AT. Does it > require special tools? Also, is there a source for a rebuild kit -- can't > see one on either the GoWesty or the Bus Depot sites. > > Rick >

-- Cya, Robert

'87 2.1/Auto GL


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