Frank Grunthaner wrote: << I drove a 5 speed here in California in April of 1983 and was very disappointed because the third was too low and fourth was too high. For the minimal power of the diesel, the 4 speed was actually a better choice. However, with a gasoline 1.8L or 2.0L in-line 4 conversion, the five speed would be a real improvement. Probably justify R&P replacement. >> I can get just about anything to do what is required to convert 4-speeds to a 5-speed transaxle. The problem is that performance does not come cheaply. When we start tallying up the bill and it begins to push the $4000++ limit those owners who were considering this upgrade start to get glassy eyed- much like deer caught in the oncoming headlights of a 18-wheeler. This is why, particularly for the earlier Bay window drivers, I mix and match some factory and aftermarket parts to come up with a 4-speed that still has plenty of oomph around town and has a nice cruise rpm at highway speeds. When I can build one of these gearboxes for about $1500+ that will do 90% of the $4000 trans then you can see why I don't have much call for a 5-speed conversion. Heck, even the Berg 5-speed conversion for the Type 1 owners will set them back around $2500. Speed costs money- how fast do you want to go?? ~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~* Todd Hill VolksWerks Transaxles Olympia, WA |
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