Sounds like the downshift issue is a sloppy linkage problem.
The whine is probably a bearing noise such as pinion bearing which will ruin
the ring/pinon and degrade the other surfaces internally if left unrepaired.
Metal filings and pieces of bearing will hasten the rebuild. Not to mention
the 3/4 slider hub is probably already starting to crack..Fix it on your
terms, not it's...
Daryl of AA Transaxle
Duvall, WA. (Seattle area)
1-877-377-0773 toll free
425-788-4070
aatransaxle.com
86 Syncro Westy Turbocharged
----- Original Message -----
From: "Stephen Edwards" <welfarewrkr@IGC.ORG>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, January 01, 1970 9:46 PM
Subject: Transmission noise, shifter goes into reverse too easily

>I suspect that the "new" 91 GL 4-speed I just picked up needs a
> transmission.  It runs very nicely but there is that whine that is
> noticeable as you go up through the gears; also there is very little
> travel on the clutch, suggesting that it's a long time since that was
> done  (the clutch is also very heavy to operate, not sure what that
> means), and - most strangely of all - it seems to be quite possible
> to shift into reverse when you meant to go from third into second.
>
> I've managed to avoid having it actually happen - ! - while in motion
> but it slips over to the Left awfully easy.  This is my 4th Vanagon
> and none of the others did this. I am learning the knack of NOT
> letting it do that, but I am wondering if it's a sign of - a need for
> a rebuild?
>
> In list members' experience, how long can you drive a Vanagon with
> that whine on acceleration before you can expect bad things to
> happen, and what would be the next symptom to watch out for?
>
> I've just had the brakes and shocks done, need new tires (am thinking
> about 15" wheels, would be interested in feedback on that) so want to
> postpone transmission work as long as safely possible.
>
> Steve
>
> GL 2-wheel drives - currently 90, 91 and an 84 which will be looking
> for a new home one of these days.
>