Converting an automatic Transmission to a manual one

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- David Craig
  
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posted
18 years ago

Mon, Oct 24, 2005 5:36 PM

Per some ideas that I received from some of you, I am now at the point where I am going to convert my 1988 Golf automatic transmission to a

5-speed manual transmission. I called a salvage yard to find a manual tranny, but was posed with the question.....which type to buy? The salvage yard said there are eight different types that could go in. Does anyone have any ideas as to which type to purchase? To me, it would seem that since I am replacing the entire transaxle, that it wouldn't matter which transmission....but, then again, what do I know.

Thanks to all for taking time to ponder this.

Dave

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- Papa
  
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posted
18 years ago

Mon, Oct 24, 2005 7:45 PM

You may already be aware of some of the "gotchas" involved in the switchover, but in case you are not, I suggest that you get into one of the Volkswagen forums such as VWVortex and look for posts on the subject (or just ask) before you buy any parts. I know that for some VW models, there is a lot more to it than just switching transmissions. For example, on my '88 Cabbie the steering column and starter are different for the manual and automatic transmissions, and of course the gas/brake pedal assembly must be replaced by a gas/brake/clutch pedal assembly. You can't just add a clutch pedal. Then some of the electric circuits are different as well (the backup light switch, for example).

The VWVortex Cabriolet forum is at

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I know there are some pretty good discussions on the subject there. Good luck.

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- SteveH
  
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posted
18 years ago

Mon, Oct 24, 2005 8:26 PM

It will be *much* cheaper to sell the auto and buy a manual.

As has already been posted, there's loads of other bits also need changing, not least the carburettor - finding a good carb. for an '88 Golf is going to be a major pain - when I was looking for a carb. for my '81 cabrio, I gave up and sold the car instead.