Aussieveedubbers · Tech Mods and Frequently asked Questions

Are 5 speed conversions worth doing?

https://forums.aussieveedubbers.com/threads/95371/are-5-speed-conversions-worth-doing

vwsteve ·

Just out of interest does anyone know if the old 5 speed conversions are worth doing at all?I have been offered a new one unused, its one of the kits sold in the vw power magazine donkeys years ago but not sure if its worthwhile or not, i heard you dont get much extra out of them?

matberry ·

Much extra??? It's down to what ratios are installed. But the old Trushift certainly had issues. The are a keyed shaft extension that isn't real strong, but with a near stock engine and if assembled correctly they can last.

Craig Torrens ·

Well I'm installing a Berg 5 speed, so I will let you know in a couple of months !

Joel ·

matberry wrote:with a near stock engine and if assembled correctly they can last.
Yeah and a near stock engine is worthless with a 5 speed anyway unless it's down hill.

vdubbles24 ·

VWs were 4 spd and geared the way they are to maximize air flow at the right rpms. I looked into a 5 spd conversion a few years back. But the gain for all the work wasn't worth it.

Not being negative just givin my .02 cents. Lol

Craig Torrens ·

You make 5th gear the same ratio as the standard VW 4th gear, giving you a close ratio box for the other 4 gears. As 5th is the same ratio as the original 4th then cooling is exactly the same 😎

ragged ·

The VW 4th gear is an overdrive. So what Craig says makes the best sense or reason for a conversion.
Is it worth doing? What is it you wish to achieve?

Cheers Dave
Craig Torrens wrote:You make 5th gear the same ratio as the standard VW 4th gear, giving you a close ratio box for the other 4 gears. As 5th is the same ratio as the original 4th then cooling is exactly the same 😎

matberry ·

Yes, I agree with Craig. It's a case of closing up the ratios, you wont believe it when done right, it;s like adding 25hp, when you shift, there are less rpm drop so you are in a more powerful part of the power curve.

Craig Torrens ·

here's my gear ratios. Diff ratio is 4.125