Bill,
I wouldn't do it.  Comparing my gas mileage to other non-Syncro I can't see
you can save too much on gas bill.  Even if you removed the drive shaft,
your front differential will be still turning (so your speedo still works)
by the front wheels.  The wear and tear are still there.  And that's why
the gas mileage won't improve too much.

Regards,
Yi-Ruey Wei
87 Vanagon GL Syncro  w/leaking cylinder head
85 Jetta GLI  w/165,000 miles
Dallas, TX  (Back to 100 degrees)

Bill Shanklin <BillS@MATRIXOZ.COM.AU> on 08/11/98 07:30:20 AM

Please respond to Bill Shanklin <BillS@MATRIXOZ.COM.AU>
To:   Vanagon@VANAGON.COM
cc:
Subject:  2wd  Syncro?

G'day Syncronauts -

I'm new to owning a Syncro. Wanted one for years and have had many VWs
in the past.
Realistically, I don't plan to drive it seriously as a 4wd for a year or
more.

I have just had a local ex-Syncro owner suggest that if I'm not  using
the 4wd then I could get better fuel mileage and have more fun driving
with the main back to front drive shaft removed. He promised that the
front gearbox would live longer as well.

Any experiences? how much is true? Should I / shouldn't I??

Thanks from Down Under
************************************************************
   Bill Shanklin                                   bills@matrixoz.com.au
   Matrix Australia Pty. Ltd.
   38 Pearse Street                           Tel  +61   (0)  8
9430-7819
   North Fremantle WA 6159            Fax  +61  (0)  8   9430-7809
   AUSTRALIA

 88 Transporter Syncro (Camper to be)

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