I put a lock axle in my 1986 (2 wheel drive). The trans. case
    was not setup for a lock axle. I had to weld an ALuminum block
    to the side and other ALuminum welding. Then machine it all.
    NOT pretty, or easy. Slip up and you could be buying a new
    transmission. This, I would not recomend. I would suggest
    finding a limited slip rear axle. If and when my Syncro
    transaxle needs repair, this is what I will install. I don't
    no why VW didn't offer this as an option. limited slip axles
    will get you traction to both rear wheels

            Eric                   86-VW4x4
            vw4x4@fyi.net          72-240z
            Pittsburgh, PA USA     1936-Chrysler

On Mon, 1 Dec 1997, Marcus Elia wrote:

> On Sun, 30 Nov 1997, Joel Skousen wrote:
>
> > Yes, you can add a diff lock to the syncro tranny, but it takes some
> > costly machining.  There is a knock-out in the case for the diff. lock
> > mechanism, but it has to be machined to size and a groove has to be cut
> > out to fit a sealing rubber ring that keeps fluid from leaking out once
> > you put in the diff locking mechanism.  The actuator is about $165, not
> > to mention all the vacuum lines, switch, etc.  Best to bide your time
> > and look for a junker.
>
> I drive (year-round) an '84 Westy (non-syncro, obviously) and live in
> Peterborough, Ontario (in the 'snow belt') where the snow often
> gets deep then inevitably gets mushy... My current transmission is in just
> fine condition but I was wondering if, on the off-chance that it ever gave
> up the ghost, is it possible to put in a replacement that has a locking
> differential?  Does anyone have any experience with this?  I'm sure that
> more than one person has entertained the idea.
>
> Marcus Elia
> '84 Westy (Dela)
>