SideShift/TailShift Hybird XMSN?

Kevin Lewis · 04-01-2003, 06:39 AM

Please has anyone see this and will it work ok? I have just purchased a used XMSN and it looks like it use to be a tail shift XMSN, but now it is a side shift XMSN. It looks like I have a hybrid? It is indeed a tail shift XMSN converted to a side shifter with the side linkage and the side mtg plate. The tail shift linkage has been removed and an inspection cover is installed over the old tail shift linkage port. Has anyone see this same configuration. I have a 1973 914-4 1.7L, will this work ok or did I get taken for a ride?

Dave at Pelican Parts · Dave at Pelican Parts's Garage

It will work fine. Usually the old gear selector rod is left in the tail cover, as that is easier than finding or making a block-off plate.

Assuming that the necessary work has been done inside the transmission, it should work just fine as a side-shifter.

--DD

Kevin Lewis · 04-01-2003, 07:36 AM

Thank you for the information, I got the newer XMSN for a good price and it was overhauled 100 miles ago, much less than what it will cost to overhaul my original XMSN. I will keep the original XMSN to overhaul and replace someday, nothing like having all the original eqpt intact when you go to sell a vehicle.

red-beard · red-beard's Garage

Except for the 2 additional leak paths, there is no problem.

The only problem with the setup you have is the possibility that over time a leak may develop in the old tail shift rod seal. It may not have been replaced at the overhaul since the kits only come with 1 and they are used on the shift rake assembly (The side shift - connection).

Actually, I am planning on doing exactly this to my 914/6 tranny. I do plan to come up with a plug instead of leaving the shift rod there. Maybe a pipe plug and JB Weld, or just having it welded shut.

James

Kevin Lewis · 04-01-2003, 02:15 PM

James,
This XMSN looks like it has an alumnium plug pressed in and a weld bead around it where the shaft use to stick out, no evidence of oil leakage, but I haven't put it in and run it here in AZ. I found out last year that the heat is a good oil leak finder here in AZ.
Later, Kevin

red-beard · red-beard's Garage

Beautiful. I thought the old shift linkage was still there. You may not actually have a converted tranny. You may have a sideshift with a replaced old tail shift rear cover. The tranny mounts on the cover are notoriously weak.

James