Aargh, simple statements!

The vanagon diesel must have a reduced lifetime (in distance traveled)
compared to the Rabbit/Golf/Jetta versions because of the higher work level
required ... weight, drag. Not because of gearing!

This reduced mean lifetime (greatest reduction for fully loaded Westfalia,
least for unloaded utility transporter) is further exaggerated by poor
maintainence habits.

So, yep, has to! (Smile)

Frank Grunthaner