Spare parts for the Bus transmission

Transmission

The Foundation for Perfect Propulsion – The Remodeled Transmission for Your VW Bus T2

A precise power transmission and a buttery-smooth shifting feel are the be-all and end-all for every outing with your classic – and should be in focus both during transmission revision and transmission overhaul. Different components can be used here – depending on the wear pattern and your own demands on shifting comfort. In addition to the daily guidance of the gears via shift rod, clutch & co., a complete restoration of the mechanical components after decades on the asphalt is also worthwhile. Then nothing stands in the way of a radiant and carefree classic car experience. We reveal why the topic of transmission is essential every day, what steps to observe during revision – and which versions are used for individual driving profiles. We also go into detail about short shifters and transmission oil.

Why is the transmission an important step in classic car care?

Power transmission and shifting precision form the base of the daily drive – only when the transmission works cleanly can the engine power be transmitted optimally or the Bulli be safely kept revving. It is not enough to simply accept play in the shift lever or stiff shifting behavior. While superficial defects are ignored in this way, worn bushings, old oil, or grinding gear wheels stubbornly persist – for the latter, you should also rely on high-quality new parts or overhauled assemblies. These are renewed with appropriate tools, pullers & co.

When should I check my transmission?

In the morning before the trip & regularly on the lift! During the inspection of the transmission, the remnants of the hard everyday life are removed: sticky gears, leaking oil, and unusual noises. In addition, inaccurate shift paths, dragging clutches, and the wear of the classic disappear in the workshop instead of endangering driving behavior.

How does the repair of the transmission work?

These four belong to the basic equipment:

• The spare part or wear part of your choice
• A workshop manual exclusively for your T2
• Special transmission oil and sealing paste
• Torque wrench and drain pan

For most work, a lift is recommended as a basis for repair. Set the new components in exact fit and secure them (if applicable) with new seals. Dry your hands gently with a workshop cloth that you only use for fine work. Afterwards, you can top up the transmission oil professionally. Please note that you only check the oil level when the vehicle is horizontal – otherwise too much or too little is filled and the gears suffer. After the revision, a test drive is recommended. This supplies your shifting feel with the corresponding lightness and precision.

Which transmission suits me?

Actually, asking a counter-question is impolite. But in order to choose the right components or the matching gear ratio in terms of transmission, we want to know from you: Which driving style would you assign your bus to? Do you desire an original ratio, sporty acceleration, or durable long-distance equipment? Because for every application there is the matching transmission component.

• Original version: Your Bulli copes best with all standard transmission parts. Whether synchronizer rings, seals, or shift forks: you have the choice for faithful restorations.
• Longer ratio (Eco / Highway): So that your engine does not run in the high-load range even on long distances, you should use a transmission with a longer fourth gear or longer axle ratio, which supplies your vehicle with lower revs again after the overhaul. You should also make sure that worn-out bearings are not on the repair list. Particularly quiet on the highway are, for example, modified transmission variants. Paired with fresh transmission oil, we say "Ade!" to high noise levels and over-revved engines. Tip: For long-distance use, a precise tuning of the gear steps is recommended. This protects the engine particularly sustainably – and lowers consumption without clouding the pulling power.
• Reinforced version (Heavy-Duty): With a sporty driving style or heavy towing load, you can also have your transmission reinforced. A reinforced gear set or reinforced side covers are recommended for this. These withstand higher torques and simultaneously ensure maximum reliability. Load changes or sticky shifting are also tackled.
• Camping / Mountain version: This application often resists sluggish acceleration on the mountain. Therefore, a transmission layout that relies on shorter stepping in the lower gears is exactly the right thing for you. At Hoffmann Speedster, you will also find these components in the area for demanding classic car restorations.