The following interesting posting for a model LT35 VW Van brings to mind my
continuing search for tougher rear wheel drive transmissions than any standard
Vanagon manual boxes.  I don't know much about older LT35 series vans other
than the fact that they are larger, heavier, and mainly sold for commercial use
outside the USA.  More recently, the front wheel drive versions came fitted
with larger displacement high torque low rpm turning motors than those fitted
in the Eurovan.  Hunting for the rare bird 2.8 liter 4 cylinder VW motor found
in VW motor charts revealed that they were sold in the LT35 VW, and heavily
used in commercial trade.   They seem to enjoy an excellent reputation for
reliability.   To give you an idea of build quality, the current LT35 TDI
diesel has an all-gear valve train drive so there's no belt or chain to replace
like batteries in a flashlight.  Very classy.  I have a photo of this motor's
gear set, and it's just beautiful.

For a person mainly interested in a rear wheel drive transmission from a parts
donor, newer LT35 vans would be of no particular interest because they are
front wheel drive models.  But how about the older LT35 vans?  Were they rear
wheel drives fitted with a larger slower turning motor having LOTS more low end
torque than Vanagons?  If that describes them, it seems their transmissions
would be rear wheel drive, high torque rated, and geared for a lower rpm range
motor than any offered Vanagon transmission.  That describes some of the
characteristics those of us wanting to install direct injection TDI diesels
into Vanagons want.  Might older LT35 transmissions be excellent candidates for
these TDI transplants?

Lots of speculation here, but not enough information.  Could anyone who KNOWS,
please cast some light on this whole issue?  Surely some of you who live
outside the US where LT35 Vans were commonly sold are familiar with them.
Thanks for your help.
John

******copy follows******
Subject: For Sale: Volkswagen LT35 in SoCal
Date: Thu, 11 Feb 1999 17:08:23 -0800
This is a very large VW van compared to the microbus and Vanagon.
It's got a gas engine, manual trans, camper interior, split windscreen,
dual rear wheels, sage green.  Yours for about $300.
Ask for Marty, at Mesa West in Costa Mesa CA (949)645-2374

Jack  '73 Westfalia
Costa Mesa, CA