Either the clutch is not releasing properly, the pilot bearing is bad or the
synchros are worn. You may try changing the oil to see if that helps. Good
luck.

Dennis

----- Original Message -----
From: Vern D. Moen <vmoen@YAHOO.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, August 18, 1999 12:52 PM
Subject: 87 Transmission Shifting

> My wife and I just purchased and 87 Vanagon GL with
> 165K on it to replace our 85 Vanagon Weekender. Since
> the new one actually has a tach, we can now see what
> the engine is doing when shifting. Our question is:
> the PO has the clutch replaced last year and the
> transaxle rebuilt ('bad gear' he said). When
> downshifting into second gear, the gear will crunch
> (sometimes a little, sometimes alot) unless speed is
> about 15 MPH and 1500 RPM's. We've been trying to find
> the right 'sweet spot' for shifting but sometimes it
> works, sometimes it doesn't. Double clutching doesn't
> seem to help either. Also, any upshift from first to
> second is sometimes dicey. Any ideas from the list
> would be appreciated.
>
> ===
> Vern Moen
> vmoen@yahoo.com
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