Manual or Auto - THE POLL

thirdman · Posted: Thu Jan 01, 2009 4:15 am Post subject:

Best. Bunny. Ever.

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1983 Rustfalia
1984 Wolftsturd
1985 Vanagon GL

MrPolak · Posted: Fri Jan 02, 2009 7:36 pm Post subject:

thirdman · Posted: Fri Jan 02, 2009 8:26 pm Post subject:

_________________
1983 Rustfalia
1984 Wolftsturd
1985 Vanagon GL

jackbombay · Posted: Fri Jan 02, 2009 10:53 pm Post subject:

Stick is better for drifting Cool

Most all my driving is rural so a manual trans is ideal for me, plus I'm a control freak Razz

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MrPolak · Posted: Tue Jan 06, 2009 9:48 am Post subject:

Here are some downsides of the automatic to consider, especially if you do any long-distance driving or camping.

1. You can't tow your vehicle with the rear wheels on the ground. This means flat bed trailer or tow truck for you. This means no tow-strap option for you.
2. You can't push-start an automatic. So if you run down your battery or your solenoid is sticky, you have to look for a jump start and so on.
3. You are relying on your brakes more because you don't engine-brake. This means faster wear and potentially dangerous situations in the mountains. Yes, you CAN downshift an automatic, but most people don't. A manual brakes more effectively.
4. The torque converter means slippage which means less MPG. A manual will always be more efficient.
5. You can't regear if you swap engines. Ok, most folks don't have to worry about this.
6. You're revving the crud out of your engine on the highway.
7. Someone mentioned leaks and heat as an issue in the automatics.

Downsides of a manual:

1. You have to learn a skill and you have to operate the clutch. Although I find myself not even thinking about shifting. I have become... automatic? Smile

2. You have to eventually change the clutch, but more likely the pilot bearing.
3. Yes, you should change your gearbox oil once a year if you drive regularly, as per gearbox experts. This will extend the life of your gearbox greatly.
4. You have a potential issue with slave clutch cylinder - it might need replacing. Mine is 25 years old, so I'm counting my lucky days.
5. Based on the average age of the T3 the shifter bushings probably need replacing too. Ok, you'll do this every 20 years or so.

Downsides of bunnies:

1. Litter boxes.
2. They reproduce like... rabbits!
3. Ooh, were those your favorite slippers?

Does anyone have anything to add?


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