you'd be taking a step backwards in terms of how good the shift linkage
design is .....
the early linkage, which you'd have to install ( which involves removing the
fuel tank, and adding a support bracket for a bushing ) .....
is a lousier design linkage than the 83 and later type that you currently
have.  So a step backwards there.

And you'd have to do some fiddling at the front trans mount - nothing too
difficult though.
Plus swap over bell housings of course.
The DK air-cooled trans is desirable for sure,  for some types of vanagons,
but not yours.  It has very nice gearing in top gear though.
Should you want to be linkage from the air-cooled, I have such.
Scott
www.turbovans.com

----- Original Message -----
From: "Doug Noganav" <vanagon@ASTOUND.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, April 21, 2009 5:28 PM
Subject: Trans swap between Vanagons

Anybody know if an 81 Air Cooled Vanagon 4 Speed transmission with work in
an 88 Vanagon?

Or what mods would be reqired?

Thanks

Doug