> I searched the archives for "5 speed" a while back, and mainly found
> references implying that it was a mythical beast...
>
> So, my questions are for anyone with actual experience:
>
> Do these truly exist, are they an adaptable replacement for a 4-speed in an
> '85 Westie?
>
> Does the fifth gear provide a better ratio for highway cruising, or is this
> tranny to give better lo-range torque?

5 speed transmissions really do exist, in 1983 diesel vans.  I have one
in my '82 Westy.  It provides a little higher top speed and keeps the
RPMs down on the highway for the 48HP diesel engine.  The gearing would
be too low for a waterboxer.  Get our your calculator and do some
figuring using the transmission info at

http://volksweb.relitech.com/helmut/GEARBOX.HTM

The USA market 5 speed for the 1983 diesels is the DX model.  Compare
final drive ratios with the factory offerings for your engine.

Mike Snow
1982 Westfalia diesel