Dear Kate,

Our '84 GL had a transmission shifting problem before we bought it (the
previous owner told me about it).  I think a pin or bolt had backed out,
and prevented the shift forks from moving.  The dealer fixed the problem -
I don't think it cost that much.  We've since put on over 100K miles on the
van, and it shifts just fine.

Finding a qualified mechanic may be difficult in some parts of the country,
but I would look really hard before paying for a "new" transmission.

Sincerely,

John Hung
Auburn, AL
'84 GL (hot starting problems)

>Date:    Wed, 26 May 1999 22:16:17 -0400
>From:    Kate McLaughlin <KateMacMac@WORLDNET.ATT.NET>
>Subject: Huston we have a problem
>
>I was driving home yesterday, and all was well. I was taking it easy in
>3rd.  As traffic moved on I attempted to shift to 4th, but my VW didn't
>want to shift.  She liked 3rd so much, she decided to stay there.  This
>morning I had my sick Vanagon towed to a place that "only works on
>VW's".  Well I mechanic wanted to put in a new transmission.  I asked
>him for a quote.  He told me he called the dealer, and it would be
>$3,000 for the trans and $2,500 for the work.  In the past I have have
>had the engine rebuilt.  The trans was fine until last night, not a pop,
>grind, or leak.  So here I am no VW.  I'm leery about putting in a new
>trans.  The mechanic said that it would be easier and cost less if we
>popped in a new one, maybe easier for him, not for me $$$.  Has anyone
>ever had this happen to their Vanagon?  The mechanics haven't opened her
>yet. They put her on the lift and that was it.  I have heard that there
>were some problems with the gears breaking in the model.  It's an 86.
>My poor Stella.  I miss her already!