On a waterboxer Vanagon, changing to a manual tranny would be no big
challenge if you have the tools and are handy. There are plenty of
passenger models hitting the junkyards. The self serve yards I go to
would charge less than $500 for the tranny, shift linkage, shift lever
assembly, pedal assembly, hydraulic lines, starter, flywheel, and
clutch. I would use a new clutch master and slave unit. Getting the
tranny would be a matter of luck though as they sell in a day or 2 after
the vehicle is put out or are pulled by the yard for a standing order.
The rest of the needed parts usually just sit there until the vehicle
goes to the crusher.

Mark

Dan Barrett wrote:
>
> The voice of reason.
> I know, it sounds like a boneheaded idea, but I found a Westy that's _very_
> reasonably priced (new engine, rust free, in the area, seller is ready to
> deal, etc. etc.) BUT it's an auto.  Damnit!
>
> On Monday 11 November 2002 10:44, David Brodbeck wrote:
> > The classic suggestion I've seen is to sell it and buy the van you want,
> > instead of going to all the effort to try to convert the one you have. :)