I am having concerns about the ability of the standard side-plates on my swing-axle trans. [No.8 Beetle] to withstand the side loads now being thrown
at them.
Not only is there more torque [motor now 2276cc], the new tyres will have more grip. Should I be fitting stronger side-plates, and if so, which
ones?
Cheers, Greg
I was wondering the same thing, what normally goes on a stock gearbox with a bigger engine ?
If I cant afford a DB box what "cheap " mods would help?
| Quote: |
While hard cornering swingaxle cars are a rarity,
it is not unheard-of, that hard cornering can push the crown wheel either in, or out, of mesh,(depending on which way the corner is!)
Light cars like formula vees may not see this problem, but I have heard of it on a beetle.
Normally better side covers are fitted to contain the forces 'within', so they are normally fitted to only one side.(left)
Greg will need one on both sides, unless he is in the speedway.
I prefer to use the billet ones, but the cast type can help a bit better than a stocker and are very cheap.
What ever you decide to do, make sure the bearing preload is maintained, and backlash is checked to be correct.
Governor, failures 'related to torque out put' of a bigger engine will normally show up in the spider gear failures.
Later model gearboxes used thicker teeth in this area,
which makes for a low cost strength increase for very low budget people.
Abuse-type failures can show up as other stuff,
particularly in old worn out gearboxes, and those with poor lubrication(design and volume!).
Many thanks, Dave. That's the kind of reply I was hoping for.......informative, first-hand, and useful. I am running a steel 'spool', [courtesy ofHenry S.] by the way.
This confirms my concerns, which were just 'gut feelings' really, as there a no signs of a problem...YET.
Cheers, Greg
| Quote: |
Picked up my transmission from D.B......he wasn't THAT dangerous.
With shiny new 'brick-dunny' side plates, and the cleanest it has ever looked, it's a shame to hide it away in the car.....but I will.
Great to meet you, Dave, and many thanks. 
......Sorry if I waffled
on too much.
All good Greg, great to meet you too!
