Tom's Baja Bug

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Body/Paint

FAQ 113

Question: Great site, thanks!

A little un-related but am considering purchase of VW powered trike, 1600cc OEM new engines. Can see at www.novatrikes.com. They are in process of developing automatic trans to their trikes and also hydralic lifter model engine also. Should I wait for the automatic trans or forget it and go with manual? Any problems with auto etc.? Will be a while while they redesign frame but sticks (maual transmissions) are ready for delivery. Gear ratio has been changed on the stick transaxles from 4.12 to 3.88 to control front end lift.

Thanks.

Bob

Answer: I like shifting, and the manual VW tranny is solid.

Are they going to offer a VW autostick auto, or an aftermarket auto tranny? I'd love to hear more about that.

The autostick from VW is a manual tranny with an electronically activated, vacuum controlled clutch, combined with a torque converter. It works, and people tell me they like them. Service could be an issue since they are not common. However, they are reliable from what I can tell.

You give up a little power with the autostick, but that won't be factor on a trike!

Hydraulic lifters are (as far as I can tell) good. The engine will be quieter and you won't have to do the 3000 mile valve adjustment. Hyd. lifter engines need a real oil filter, but I'd recommend that anyway.

Drop me a note when you get it. I'd love to hear how things turn out.

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