If the noise is load dependent and occurs in all gears it most likely is a
bad pinion bearing. If the noise is more dominant in 1st or 2nd gears then
it is likely a bad input (main) shaft bearing. If the gearshift lever moves
when load is applied-removed in 3rd-4th gears this is also a main shaft
bearing or gear carrier housing problem. Continued operation with a bad
pinion bearing will destroy the ring-pinion adding considerably to repair
costs. These transmissions suffer more from undersize parts fatigue than
actual wear so miracle oils do little to actually extend their life.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Tom Buese
Sent: Thursday, September 15, 2011 1:36 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Tranny Whinning in 84 Westy?

Dear fellow vanagonuts,

My 84 w/ original 1.9 & tranny w/ 145k miles on it, appears to have
developed a whinning sound when the clutch is not depressed, & I am
accelerating.  Depress the clutch & the sound goes away.  You might remember
that recently I had a miracle where 1 day the van would not shift into any
gear unless the ignition was off, & I topped off the brake/clutch fluid,
which was only a tad low from full, but it didn't get better,until the
miracle, & it either self bled or fixed itself.
Now many weeks later, it still shifts nicely, runs like a champ, but that
whinning sound has moi concerned.  Tranny going bad, clutch needing
replacement, changed to Royal Purple Tranny fluid a year ago, needing to be
topped off?

Your humble attention to my issue would be appreciated, especially before I
attempt to drive 600 miles RT next weekend.

YMMV,

Mr. BZ-the only whinning I want to hear is my own