Hi Brad,
    Transaxles are no more complex than many of the other systems on our
vans.  There are a couple of tools required that are not normally laying
around most of our tool boxes. The syncro / 4wd has a few more parts but is
very similar to the venerable 2wd 091 that our busses and vans have used
since 76 models. The 002 before that is very similar just made a little
lighter. You can replace just  the 3-4 th hub for about $200, or also
replace all the synchronizers and most bearings add another $400.
Darrell Boehler
Makanda Illinois

----- Original Message -----
From: Brad Spear <SSGSPEAR@AOL.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, December 16, 1999 9:36 PM
Subject: Dreaded Fourth Gear Failure

> Well, it finally happened.  It happened up in Eagan just after turning
right
> from Lexington to go west on Yankee Doodle Road, yes that is it's name,
after
> going to the post office there.  First gear was fine as was second and
third
> but when I put it in fourth and released the clutch there was a quick jerk
> then nothing except for a grinding sound from the rear.  Put it back in
third
> thinking to myself a few things that should not be put out for public
viewing.
>
> So now I am down a gear and I am supposed to be moving from here to Fort
> Drum, NY in a couple of weeks.  That's in upstate New York where it may
not
> get as cold as here but they get a lot more snow.  Anybody ever done a
> rebuild on a Syncro trans?  Any pointers?  Or should I just try to come up
> with the money to have this one done?  I've never done one before but I
have
> done engines.
>
> Any advise would be greatly appreciated.
>
> aTdHvAaNnKcSe
>
> Brad Spear
> '72 Westy (Too cold for this but may not have a choice)
> '87 Syncro GL (Minus one gear)
>