Tranny replacement

[hermie66]

I have a 1960 Bug with the original trans. I have the opportunity to buy a Super Beetle parts car with a working 1600dp and trans to do a 12 volt upgrade. Other than replacing the nose cone on the trans, will this motor/trans combo fit on my 1960 floor pan. Thanks in advance for your input.
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"I have a fever, and the only prescription is more cow bell!"

[Russ Wolfe]

Your 60 bug is a split case swing axle trans. The Super Beetle, is a tunnel case IRS transmission. It won't work unless you convert the 60 to IRS suspension.
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Society is like stew. If you don't keep it stirred up, you end up with a lot of scum on the top!--Edward Abbey

Gary: OK. Ima poop.

[anthracitedub]

Your 60 trans is a swing axle trans...having no CV joints. While your later trans will fit...you would have to convert the rear to IRS...using all the suspension parts from your SB purchase. It would require you welding the attachment points for the rear trailing arms to the frame of your 60. Also, you would have to create clearance on top of your frame horns for the inner CV joints to clear. I would personally not convert to IRS...I would just use another trans. If you plan on driving your car often..it is worth the investment of getting a quality rebuilt unit from a reputable business...it will save you much headache in the future...just knowing that you have a good transaxle and just maintenance is your only concern.

The later engine will fit in you 60 with little modification. If you end up replacing your trans with another 6V trans...you will have to clearance the inner bell housing to clear the 12v flywheel. Also, using the 12v starter will require the use of a special starter bushing with the correct ID/OD demensions. These are not exotic parts so they are available through most suppliers. I have found that 1600 engines are a little "tight " fitting, but not to bad going in.

If you end up getting a new trans...you can specify that you are going 12v and wont have to worry about clearance issues within the bell housing and also you can get that starter bushing along with it.

If your car is a good clean 60...personally I would stay away from doing to many major mods...and retain the parts that you remove from it...like the engine and trans if they are original.

JGW

[OR-Buggy]

I have a 1960 with a split case and it went out. I happened to have a extra 1972 dual side cover irs trans. I had strictly foreign trans convert it to swing and had some upgrades made, you can use your axles and tubes over. I put in in about 2 weeks ago and much better driving. let me know if you have questions. the only change is that you will need to use a bus nose cone on the front of the trans.
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71 Chevelle (parked)
1960 VW Bug
Dune Buggy (fair weather remember in OR)

[hermie66]

Thanks alot guys for the input! Still up in the air about the direction I am going to go.
_________________
"I have a fever, and the only prescription is more cow bell!"