TheSamba.com :: View topic

Sat Jul 26, 2008 11:12 am

So, how interchangeable are these parts?

I tried some searches, so you if you know the search term to find engine/transaxle compatibility, that might be the biggest help of all.

Here's my situation,

I have a '76 chassis with the 79 engine in it, and it ran for quite a while before I bought it. However, I recently dropped the engine and discovered that both the input shaft seal, main seal, and pilot bearing were shot (or rather, that's why I dropped it). I'm convinced--thanks to some advice here, and some advice at home--that I probably have a bearing out in the tranny as well (lots of play in the input shaft, totally destroyed pilot bearing.) Check it out here: http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?p=3164895#3164895

So, I have a friend with a line on what looks to be a solid transmission, left to die in a '71. The tranny code is: (big stamped) 5 above the number 002 301 103A. Can I put a 71 tranny in a 76 bus with a 79 engine?

Thanks all! Let me know if pictures of anything would help.

Sat Jul 26, 2008 11:23 am

It won't fit, it has no upper mount lugs, the input shaft is too short, the front mount is different and the bellhousing is too small for the big flywheel.

Sat Jul 26, 2008 11:27 am

So, what are the date ranges for compatible transaxles?

Thanks!

Sat Jul 26, 2008 11:30 am

You need an 091 tranny, a 6 rib. '76-'79 only. You could probably get away with a 5 rib ('75 only) but your best bet is the 6 rib. Expect to pay at least $500 for a good one.

Sat Jul 26, 2008 6:30 pm

There is a way to make it fit. The biggest thing is finding the correct flywheel to mate up the newer engine with the older tranny. The tranny mounting is different but the bell housing mount is not required for it to fit.

It would be a lot easier to get the 091 transmission. Probably cheaper too.