You will have to swap the rear portion of the linkage I am told, but
otherwise it can be done. Seen an early trans in several vans. Not quite as
strong and has a taller 4.57 R&P, but will do the job.

Daryl of AA Transaxle
425-788-4070
"On the cutting edge of Old technology"
86 Syncro Westy with a Zetec in the trunk

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
zzyzx
Sent: Wednesday, December 08, 2010 8:18 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Transmission replacement

Will a stock 1980 air cooled transmission provide service in 1983.5
watercooled without mods to mounting points and linkage?
Both are 4 spd.

I have a 1983.5 with a bad trans and hope my 1980 parts bus trans can be
used in the 1983.5

All comments appreciated.