Ahh, Now I see.  Thanks for the clarification.  So where have people been etting replacement starters for their syncros?  The Dealer lists them (the wrong one ?) at $284.!!!   I hope I can do better than that>
Nat 

>>> EMZ <vw4x4@fyi.net> 05/17 11:32 AM >>>
    With this description (2.5" VS 2.75") I am refering to the
     field winding case itself. Not the entire starter. Most Rebuilders
don't know about this problem, because the original supplier bousch
will not admit that they made a major blunder in there parts books.
I just got off the phone with a rep. from the co. He is going to
come out and see for himself that the 4 starter I have don't fit, unless
you smash the axle lock solenoid. I even have the A Syncro trans. out of
the vehicle. I'm glad I still have the original starter, to prove that
they made this thing 1/4" shorter. I have seen to many broke vacuum
solenoids from (butcher) mechanics, to let this guy get off easy.

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

On Mon, 17 May 1999, Nathaniel Merrill wrote:

> Could some one give me the scoop on syncro starters again?  Dealers Etc. list only one starter.  I was told that at some point around '86 they stopped selling two starter #'s and PRESUMABLY began listing one which would fit BOTH 2WDs and syncro's.   I have been told, and have read on several occasions, that the syncro starter is shorter in case length.  This would be the total length of the starter motors case.  Eric (alias EMZ) indicated the syncro case was 2.5 inches ( I assume he meant 5.5 inches or something!!) and the other starters are 2.75 (again 5.75 I assume) inches long.  I determined that my syncro's (1991) starter which was once replaced by a dealer at 78K I think around '94-95 (for the PO)     is  5.75 inches long--which of course completely  confuses the situation-- as it fits no problem. 
> Anyone know whats up?  What the real deal?
> Thanks
> Nat
>  Seattle
>