stvracing

Im buying an '81 5 speed form a guy that says he has to double clutch second gear. It sounds to me like its a trans problem. Hes feels its a clutch issue. What do you guys think it could be? Dont know if it matters or not but its NOT a euro.

Andre Hedrick

The normal way the Porsche syncros were designed to be double clutch; however, likely you have warn syncros and should be rebuilt. The switch to newer syncros in later cars, is because (we) American's think all cars should shift like a Muncie/Saganaw/Top-loader.

stvracing

Can I put a later model trans in without a huge hassle?

brutus

Have to disagree, when in good shape there is no need to double clutch.
You can shift easily with very bad or no syncros IF you do know how to let out the clutch when in neutral (double clutch) and match RPM. But the answer to the question is it is a trans problem and can be quite expensive to fix and replace all the worn parts. It is NEVER fixed by just changing a couple syncros.

brutus

Hassle is finding one and then paying for it ! They are rather valuable used but nothing like the $15,000 or so that the last 5 speed sold for.

stvracing

I found a trans for $3500 so I think Ill go with that one then.

Andre Hedrick

If it is a late model box you will need another torque tube, too.

It is true my last rebuild of my late model trans in MY 81 was $3000, but I asked for lots of new parts specifically.

Expect about $2500 to rebuild.

stvracing

I figured thats why I said I was more interested in a later model unit.

Andre Hedrick

Took me 3 years to find my current G28/13 w/ LSD out of an 88s4.

stvracing

Yeah I see Im lucky to have found this one as quickly as I did.

Dave928S

Early gearbox change difficulties can be the gearbox, or the double disc clutch adjustment ... or both. You can get an early 5 speed to change nicely if both gearbox and clutch are in good shape, and the clutch is adjusted correctly.

I'd find out what the issues are with what's in it before launching into a transplant ... but if you do go that route, make sure what you're getting is worth putting in, and doesn't need a massive $$$ injection.

stvracing

The current unit in the car stated that second gear always needed to be double clutched. That lead me to believe that the trans has a problem. The one that Im getting came from a car involved ina front end collision with a truck. That one I know the owner and what hes stating is correct.

stvracing

Thank for all the help.

Mike Simard

IMO "double clutching" is a pointless myth. It accomplishes nothing. The idea of driving around by doing the clutch twice every time you change gears is silly.
How did this get started?

stvracing

I think someone watched fast and the furious one too many times.