TheSamba.com :: View topic

Fri Aug 31, 2012 6:58 pm

First post on this wonderful forum :P

Anyway, I'm rather new to Beetles, but I recently got very intrigued by the Baja 1000 and Baja Bugs, I've set myself a goal to build one when I've got the cash, though there will be no racing in the Baja for me, seeing as I live Down Under.

However, while doing my research I regularly come across Subaru EJ engine conversions (while it's rather cool thing to do, it's a long way off and I can't afford a 3-4k engine, much rather spend that on a bug), one thing I can't get my head around with them though, nor find info about, is how you modify the transmission.

If you simply put a Subaru transmission in a beetle, it will be turning the wrong way and when you hit the accelerator you'll go backwards (they could all be driving around in reverse :V). So can someone tell me what they do to make it turn the right way? Alternatively maybe a conversion guide?

Cheers

Fri Aug 31, 2012 7:07 pm

http://www.subarugears.com/

Only way it's done. And you won't even need international shipping. Unfortunately, with your budget it's probably not an option.

Fri Aug 31, 2012 7:52 pm

jhoefer wrote: http://www.subarugears.com/

Only way it's done. And you won't even need international shipping. Unfortunately, with your budget it's probably not an option.

Yep, way out of my price range. It's just out of curiosity at them moment.

While this doesn't tell me exactly, it is a starting point. At least I know what to search for now.

Wait, found an assembly guide...

Fri Aug 31, 2012 11:18 pm

Putting a 5 speed in a VW isn't cheap but their are advantages to a Suby. Here is my trans build.

http://www.shoptalkforums.com/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=138308

Sat Sep 01, 2012 1:42 am

Download wrote: jhoefer wrote: http://www.subarugears.com/

Only way it's done. And you won't even need international shipping. Unfortunately, with your budget it's probably not an option.

While this doesn't tell me exactly,

It tells you right there at the top of the page

"We make a reverse-cut ring & pinion to suit Subaru transmissions and fully remanufactured reverse drive transmissions."

Sat Sep 01, 2012 3:42 am

Download wrote: I can't afford a 3-4k engine

Geez, where are you looking?
engine packages sold by wreckers?
They always charge a fortune.
I paid $500 for the running Subaru Liberty fresh out of rego from a local private seller.

You can just bolt the Subi engine straight up to the bug gearbox, you just need an adapter kit.

Sat Sep 01, 2012 7:00 am

Quote: You can just bolt the Subi engine straight up to the bug gearbox, you just need an adapter kit.

... and a radiator, and hoses, and an exhaust, and...

Sat Sep 01, 2012 8:02 am

Hi Download,

I would use a KEP (Kennedy Engineered Products) adapter plate and some of their other offerings to make yourself a complete "kit." This would be the least expensive option but perhaps not the most robust. The SubaruGears swap would be the strongest choice but then you're looking at quite an expensive endeavor.

Here is a quick list of things that I think you'll need to fit a Subaru 2.2L motor into the Bug:
Donor Car - 1990-1994 Subaru Legacy that runs well ~$1000
KEP adapter - ~$500
Exhaust - ??? Maybe SmallCar? (Anyone have input on Bug exhaust?)
Radiator/Fans/Hoses - ~$500 used, from a parts yard
Misc - Lots of little things

Then you're looking at reforming the wiring harness to fit into the Bug. It sounds like a super fun project to me!

I will be documenting a 75 Super Beetle to Subaru conversion soon. Keep an eye out for it on my site.

Good Luck!
Mick
www.boxerswaps.com

Sat Sep 01, 2012 2:48 pm

Mal evolent wrote: Quote: You can just bolt the Subi engine straight up to the bug gearbox, you just need an adapter kit.

... and a radiator, and hoses, and an exhaust, and...

No shit, I was just saying adapters work fine, you don't Have to use the Subaru gearbox.

I've been running the biggest EJ engine Subaru make through a stock Super Beetle trans for a while now, 5 speed would be nice but stock takes a bit of a abuse.

Mick, we have Volksconversions here in Aus that have been doing vw adapter kits since the 70s, quality is top notch and works out much cheaper than importing heavy parts from the states.

Sun Sep 02, 2012 1:17 am

I don't think any of you actually read what I said :roll:

I'm not doing a Subaru conversion, I just wanted to know how people who do get over that tiny hurdle

Sun Sep 02, 2012 3:44 am

Or maybe you just didn't read the answers :wink:

Almost every reply mentions it's subarugears reverse R&P

Sun Sep 02, 2012 3:56 am

Download wrote: I don't think any of you actually read what I said :roll:

You asked "So can someone tell me what they do to make it turn the right way?"

We told you, fit a reverse rotation ring and pinion, and showed you the only people on the planet who make it.

Whats part of this are you not reading :roll: