Status, picked up car today and got in a 100mile loop to test things out,,,, and WOW! What a difference having solid transmission mounts makes ;-)
Also, for anyone who ever wanted a softer feeling clutch, with a little bigger engagement area ( vs that on-off typical feeling) I would highly recommend the long clutch arm swap upgrade.
I’m sure most know about this- but figured I would share what little I know about this simple upgrade:
- A 72 or earlier transmission will probably have the short 73mm arm, (#1)… my VS did… and in traffic and after long drives my leg would feel a bit tired because of the “ vintage design clutch”, specially after my 3 COVID time frame knee surgeries, By switching to the 100mm long arm (#2) you will reduce your clutch pedal effort by almost 40%. ( back of the envelope force calculation.… and WOW was the change noticeable today… felt like driving with a modern clutch in traffic.
- A 73 to 75 transmission will likely have the 90mm arm (#4). The upgrade for that is the 100mm arm (#5). Although not as dramatic as the early clutch arm upgrade, it reduces pedal effort by ~11%. This is definitely noticeable.
#1-3 fit a16mm diameter clutch arm shaft ( quick test is to hold a dime to the shaft.. if it’s the same size, presto! You have an early clutch arm shaft). #4-5 fit a 20mm shaft, I believe.
The 100mm longer arms are not easy to come by, but they do pop up on the Samba, Wagen Werks ( not sure they are still open), and I believe Cip1 sometimes stocks them. I got mine from Bruce some time ago in Vancouver.
I’m really happy with this update.
wishing everyone a great weekend.
cheers,