Gas tank for continuous clunking noises? You may be lucky and just have a CV
joint/drive axle problem. You may also be unlucky and have a final
drive/differential problem. When it comes to automatic transaxles there
aren't many simpler that the Vanagon. Any transmission shop should be able
to handle this. If the final drive is shot it may be more cost effective to
find a used one.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
arlen sondergaard
Sent: Tuesday, March 26, 2013 11:50 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Transmission mechanic

I have a 1987 Wolfsburg vanagon that needs some Transmission TLC.
I earlier (month ago)  had a repeated "Clunking" while driving   My
mechanic said it could not be the transmission and  was probably the vent
hoses for my gas tank.  Since he dropped my gas tank and changed them, I
have not heard the clunking  sound.  BUT, today after stopping at a stop
sign and starting off again,   the van completely died except for a
loud clacking that slowly stopped.  I restarted van and got home(withing a
mile).

Transmission fluid level ok.  But, this time Im going with my gut feeling to
get the transmission checked or rebuilt.
I called AA Transaxel who says he doesn't do automatic transmissions.
He directed me to Eds Transmission in Northgate near Seattle/Tacoma.

The question:  Is there a trustworthy  VW savvy Transmission expert in the
Portland area?
I do not want to drive to Seattle with this  problem.
Default is to start driving N. and somewhere around Longview call AAA ( I
have premium coverage) and have the van towed to Northgate.

Thanks,
Arlene Sondergaard
(same person, new e-mail)
Washougal, Wa