If you have the time, you might rebuild it yourself.  I did when mine failed
a few years ago.  Synchro ring failed.  The parts were very inexpensive,
even from the high priced dealer I had to deal with at the time.  I had to
make a few tools to do the job.  Still it took only took a few days.

Walter E. Stephens
85 Van, doing total engine rebuild now.

-----Original Message-----
From: CARY CHIANG <chiang1@USA.NET>
To: Vanagon@VANAGON.COM <Vanagon@VANAGON.COM>
Date: Thursday, July 02, 1998 7:10 PM
Subject: 85 Westy transmission advice needed

>Dear Listees:
>    Fourth gear on my vanagon is gone (acts like its in neutral).  I looked
in the latest VW Trends magazine to check out prices and availability.  I
saw Fast German Auto, Quality German Auto Parts, GEX, and a small ad from a
company called KCR in Riverside, CA.  Does anyone out there have any
positive or negative experiences with any of these companys' rebuilt
transmissions (especially KCR)?  I would also consider purchasing a used
transmission from a list member if the price is reasonable.  Final
question--does anyone know what a "metal intermediary plate" is in regards
to its usage in a rebuilt transmission.  A mechanic told me to make sure any
rebuilt transmission I buy has one, but none of the transmission people I
have talked to know what I am talking about.  Please respond directly to me
at "chiang1@usa.net".  Thanks!!
>
>
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