TheSamba.com :: View topic - Best transmission for a Vanagon TD conversion?

Sat Jan 01, 2011 11:58 pm

What do you reckon is the best transmission for a VAnagon with a 1.9 TD in it?
It's an 82 (originally a 1.6NA diesel) that currently has the stock DZ which is really REALLY low geared.
What years/codes are the most sought after?
091 side shift from a 79?
ACW from an early 80's?
What do you think? AND WHY?!
I don't know much about them but have been getting pretty confused by the variety of opinions...But many of the opinions are backed up with reasons.

My needs are for a mild off-road van that does a lot of highway miles.

Thank!

Sun Jan 02, 2011 5:48 am

First specify what tire size you will use.

If stock diameter tires, the aircooled 80-83 trans with DK code is the best stock 4spd tranny to use in an 82 with a stock tuned 1.9TD. Fits easily.

With 215/75/15 tires a 83-91 4 spd wbx trans works better for gearing but needs linkage adapted if used in an 82. Nose mount must be modified. Codes DU, ABD, ACW

Most versatile from a gearing standpoint would be an 83 5 spd DX code but again the linkage has to be adapted if used in an 82 and the 82 engine mounting position does not easily work with this longer tranny.

The above refers to trannys commonly available in stock USA/CA Vanagons. Below is the approximate year usage by code.

DK - 80-83 aircooled
DU - 83-84 WBX
ABD - 85-86 WBX
ACW - 86-91 WBX
DX - 83 diesel

Mark

evansdd3 wrote: What do you reckon is the best transmission for a VAnagon with a 1.9 TD in it?
It's an 82 (originally a 1.6NA diesel) that currently has the stock DZ which is really REALLY low geared.
What years/codes are the most sought after?
091 side shift from a 79?
ACW from an early 80's?
What do you think? AND WHY?!
I don't know much about them but have been getting pretty confused by the variety of opinions...But many of the opinions are backed up with reasons.

My needs are for a mild off-road van that does a lot of highway miles.

Thank!

Sun Jan 02, 2011 10:43 am

Thanks for the help, Mark.
I'm using 215/75/15.
What kind of mods are necessary to make a later transmission fit?
A 5 speed from an 83 would be awesome cuz it's both a little bit lower and little bit higher!
David

Sun Jan 02, 2011 10:57 am

Actually, what mods are needed for thr 5 speed as well?
Thanks,

Sun Jan 02, 2011 11:28 am

You might want to take a look at this gearbox. Pretty much the standard in Europe for TD's
http://cgi.ebay.ca/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=220718386693&ssPageName=ADME:B:SS:CA:1123
You might also be interested in the gearbox page on the website http://northamericanhightops.com

Sun Jan 02, 2011 11:41 am

http://www.t3-infos.de/images/T3-Getriebe.pdf

Look over here all transmision type and on my site you can use

http://www.bustoys.nl/versnellingsbak%20berekenaar.xls

I will make this week this excel file also available with an option in English. :lol:

Sun Jan 02, 2011 11:42 am

Oooooh, that ebay link...I've heard about those...The elusive EuroGas 5 speed! I'll inquire about shipping as it could get a little pricey to get it to my door.
And aren't you the North American Hightop guy? Do you have anything available for my van?
Thanks for your help!

Wed Sep 03, 2014 8:19 pm

I have the option to get a DX 5spd rebuilt. I'm just not sure if it's worth the investment for when I upgrade my engine to either a 1.9na or 1.9TD.

Anyone want to weight in opinions on the DX mated to an 82' with a 1.9na or 1.9TD?

Tue Jan 27, 2015 3:53 pm

What transmission did you end up choosing? I have a DX in my AAZ 87, and am seriously considering putting in a DK.

Tue Jan 27, 2015 4:08 pm

I have a DK waiting for my 82 TDI build... Still planning on changing the 3rd and 4th gear ratios.