TheSamba.com :: View topic

Sat Jul 26, 2008 3:47 pm

is there a way to identify the year of swing axle trans I need to replace the clutch release bearing i think and don't know the year. My clutch pedal has no resistance and won't shift into gear with engine running any suggestions would be appreciated

Sun Jul 27, 2008 1:06 am

Check your bowden tube, clutch cable and clutch adjustment. I dont think a bad throwout bearing would cause a soft pedal.
To answer your question (kind of), the throwout bearing would depend on if your clutch has the early style pressure ring (pre 70) or not. From 71 on, the tranny had a guide tube over the input shaft and NO pressure ring on the clutch.
My clutch pedal went soft one day while driving. Upon inspection, my clutch cable was hanging on by about 3 strands, causing a soft pedal and hard shifting (I guess from cable stretch). My bowden tube was also nearly straight, making clutch adjustment nearly impossible. A new bowden tube and cable made every thing perfect.

Sun Jul 27, 2008 7:33 pm

To answer your question, yes there is a trans number that indicates (ballpark) its production. On the side just below the VW stamp and 113 xxx xxx part number, there will be a number stamped into the trans rib.

Mon Jul 28, 2008 8:52 am

kevin n wrote: is there a way to identify the year of swing axle trans I need to replace the clutch release bearing i think and don't know the year. My clutch pedal has no resistance and won't shift into gear with engine running any suggestions would be appreciated

I think all US swing axles were the early style TOB.
Yours should look like this:

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/222670.jpg

I think you need to check you clutch adjustment and the other items as mentioned.

Here is the ID location.

http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/164036.jpg