The 805 on the speedo face indicates the tire revolutions per mile. The
speedo cable is directly connected to the left front wheel.
The shift point markings on the speedo are for a 4 speed. They did not cahge
the speedo face for automatic.
Yes, Vanagon automatics tend to up shift early. The linkage between the
throttle and the trans throttle lever has an adjustment and the cable has to
be properly adjusted. The governor can also be modified. There is a kick
down mechanism in the throttle lever. Can you push the accelerator to the
floor and feel the detent in the tranny? If not, then throttle adjustment s
needed.

Dennis

>From: Walt Spak <b20swalt@CITY-NET.COM>
>Reply-To: Walt Spak <b20swalt@CITY-NET.COM>
>To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>Subject: questions about automatics
>Date: Thu, 25 Oct 2007 10:34:33 -0400
>
>As I wrote recently, my 19th Vanagon, a 1984 GL, is my first automatic.
>
>I have had the feeling that it up shifts very quickly, even when pulling
>hills.  It kicks down just fine and I can hold it in any gear by moving
>the shift lever.  It just seems to up shift way sooner that my Mercedes
>does.
>
>Secondly, I an a little confused about the speedometer markings.The
>speedometer has the number "805" on the face.  I am used to the shift
>points marked on the face of the standard tranny 83.5 - 84c models, one
>dot, two dots, three dots.  This one also has 3 shift points marked even
>though it is only a 3 speed and only shifts twice.  The points are:  one
>dot @ 21 mph, two dots @ 38 mph, and three dots @ 65 mph.  If i nail the
>accelerator pedal from a dead stop, the bus far exceeds these points
>before it shifts on its own.  Anyone know what this is about?
>
>Walt