if you're getting that noise/vibration going uphill under load, then I'd say
1/8 " is not enough.

things move around more than we realize perhaps.
I was fitting some 15 inch mercedes wheels to an 84 vanagon once.
They cleared the upright, or spindle carrier, in front by 1/8 inch.
Cast alloy wheels.
they would rub in turns easily.
I grind some upright material away - they'd still rub. Grind away a little
more, they'd still rub.
*something* was flexing ...wheel, bearings etc.

looks like you need to lower the front of the trans down, remove that
bracket, and trim some metal away
I'd say engine/trans unit move up to 1/2 inch at times.

----- Original Message -----
From: "neil n" <musomuso@GMAIL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, April 15, 2010 4:51 PM
Subject: Gap Between Trans. Mount Bracket & Frame Is...

> .... more than 1/8" ?
>
> Re: the WBX transmission I've installed in my '81.
>
> As anticipated, the front bracket on transmission sounds like it's
> contacting frame under load. i.e. going uphill I hear the engine
> vibrate through to cab.
>
> How much room should there be between transmission front bracket and
> frame?
>
> I see ~ 1/8" .
>
> Pretty sure the rubber in mount is ok.
>
> 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