On Mon, Mar 9, 2009 at 10:26 AM, Edward Duntz <eduntz@hotmail.com> wrote:
> I'm finally ready to replace the manual trans in the '85 Westy. I got some advicea while back here and on the Samba a while back. My father has a friend with a garage and a lift and just sprung it on me today that we can use the garage tomorrow. So I didn't have time to get all that prepared. Specifically, I wasn't able to do more research to decide if I should do the clutch, too. It was replaced before I bought the van about 60K miles ago, but the pedal has always been harder to depress than my other Vanagon. The other recommendation was for me to replace the pilot bearing. I see Bus Depot lists a pilot/needle bearing, but also some kind of gasket as well. Any last minute advice?
>

If possible, check PO's receipts for the clutch. Not certain of this,
but if they installed a performance or HD clutch in, this *may*
account for the harder to push pedal. The harder to press pedal could
be due to other things too. Check receipts for pilot bearing etc.
parts. This could save you time assuming clutch job done right by PO.

If it were me I'd check:

for leaks at input shaft seal on tranny
cross shaft for play/signs of failing (cracks at forks)
Cross shaft bushings at driver side. (Any excessive play? Is Pivot
bolt still retaining them in position? Sneak some MoS2 into bushings
especially passenger side)
TOB (spins too easily? Rattles?)
TOB guide tube secure? (DON'T over torque bolts if you remove the
part. Consult Bentley. I put Blue Locktite on mine)
Starter bushing ok?  (easy to replace. Cheap part)
leaks at FW seal? (check receipts. May show new part. Saves time)
FW ok? (any oil or burn marks?)

Not saying this is a complete list, but just off the top of my head.

Neil.

-- 
Neil Nicholson '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"

http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines