914 (901) tranny into a bug

ViolentBlue · 01-24-2000, 03:43 PM

I just wanted to open a thread to discus this issue, this is something I'm working on, and something a couple others have shown some interest in.
The goal is to take a Porsche 914 5 speed manual transmition, and convert it from mid engined application, to be used in a rear engined Bug.

PROS-
use of the type4 or 914 engine is easier, with the use of a stock 914 flywheel and pressueplate the engine and tranny just bolt up.
it is built to handle the extra power of the 914 engine, no need to use a beefed up type1 trns axle
its a 5 speed, a step up over the stock type1 unit, and not near as expensive as the Berg 5 tranny.

CONS-

Extra length of tranny may pose some problems.
you'd have to flip the ring gear or otherwise learn how to drive backwards. You'd have to do this yourself and take the chance of screwing it up, or pay a transmition shop to do it.
Mounting the tranny can cause some problems, possibly having to pay big dollars to have it welded up right.
???

I invite your comments, if you've done this before, I welcome your input,. and if you're considering doing something similar, I'm anbout to do this so stick around and learn from my mistakes.

VB

ViolentBlue · 01-25-2000, 07:05 AM

Someone brought the idea of simply flipping the tranny rather than flipping the ring gear, I had thought about this, but wasn't sure yet
Any thoughts?

kokanee · 01-25-2000, 10:16 AM

Not a task for the faint of heart...

that probably wouldn't help the mounting situation, the transmission would be easy to fabricate a mount for, but I don't see how you could mount the engine in the backseat. besides all of the ducting, it would be hard to work on the engine itself. If this actual plan were to be considered. I would personally try to put a bug body on a 914 pan. Porsche suspension, Porsche brakes, VW look.

But then that's my opinion, if you want to try go for it, and good luck.

------------------
Kokanee
'64 Manx 2.0L

ViolentBlue · 01-25-2000, 03:08 PM

a little misunderstanding.
by flipping the tranny I didn't mean turn it around so it is in a mid engined configuration, but to flip it upside down

the final drive to the wheels will be corrected, without getting into the innards of the tranny. (same as flipping the ring gear, but you've now flipped the entire tranny with it.)

VB

kokanee · 01-25-2000, 03:30 PM

wow! that is creative, and would get the wheels turning the right way, but what I find funny is: how are you going to get the gear oil out for routine maintenance? and would it stick up through the back seat?

what I do not find funny is the fact that the trans was not designed to run upside down, will it run OK? will it burn up? who knows?

these are my thoughts.

ViolentBlue · 01-25-2000, 05:54 PM

I'm told that it should run OK in this position, as to if it'll fit or not? well thats a matter to be seen.

VB

Tim Polzin · 01-26-2000, 11:16 AM

I've had a little experience with the insides of a 901 trans. It is pretty easy to flip the ring gear, but you need to pull the intermediate plate and gears out to do it. The 914 version runs with the ring gear on the inside and the 911 version on the outside, so it is really an easy swap. Good time to check the syncro's too.

I'm trying to think if there is any reason why you could not flip it. You would need to plug the vent and install a new one on the "new" top. The speedo drive would now not leak. The only things I can think of is what would be the right level for gear oil and I think the gearbox compartment does not have any holes to the ring gear compartment on the top side. You might need to drill something there to allow oil to flow between the two compartments.

Would the new clutch fork and starter positions cause any trouble?

Good luck, sounds interesting.