Auto vs 4 Speed

[Doug D.]

Hey guys!

I recently wrecked my trike, which resulted in a broken left ankle and wrist, both of which are healing nicely. However, I developed a massive blood clot, which has turned out to be kind of a game changer. There's a possibility that my left leg may be somewhat impaired because of swelling which I'm told could be permanent. This, of course, will make it kind of difficult to operate the clutch and shift gears.

I've been presented with the possibility of converting to an automatic tranny. (Full auto, not the auto stick.) The conversion would cost a bit more than repairing the damage and keeping the 4-speed, but it could make the difference between riding again and not. The latter is unacceptable.

My questions are, what are the pros and cons of the full auto?

-How does fuel mileage compare to the 4-speed?
-How does top end compare to the 4-speed?
-Will the conversion adversely affect handling/ridability?
-Is an auto trike hard to hold at a stop light/sign with the trike in gear? (Something I heard)
-Are the VW auto trannys dependable?

(Planning on Sturgis next summer)
-Anything else that might be helpful in deciding which way to go?

I've got a little time before repairs are set to begin, so I'm trying to gather as much information as I can. Where better to start than here?

Anything you guys can throw my way would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance, and ride safe!

PEACE!!

[peteg59]

Sorry to hear of your physical situation friend.
Perhaps with the help of physical therapy after any procedures you may have, things won't be as bad as you fear right now.

Unfortunately I can't help you with full auto trans questions as I ride a type 1 autostick trike.
I can tell you that the autostick is always wanting to go as soon as it goes into any gear.
I have to hold the brakes otherwise it'll try to take off, if I don't.
Its not unmanageable, as I'm used to it and know what to expect regarding take offs, stops, etc.

I'm not sure how tough it would be to convert what you're running now to full auto but I'll bet others can shed light on it for us both...

[Doug D.]

I'm not sure how tough it would be to convert what you're running now to full auto but I'll bet others can shed light on it for us both...

Thanks for the well wishes, Pete, I appreciate that.

To answer your question, I'm told the entire rear suspension would have to be replaced with that of a vehicle that was originally equipped with the auto trans. This is because the auto is wider, longer and quite a bit heavier that the 4-speed.

[vw driver]

The auto stick eliminates the clutch but you still have to shift gears. It had a very complicated activation system and I've heard working units are difficult to find. Some of the Type 3 VWs had a full automatic but it appears it will not bolt up to the stock horns, it looks to have a totally different mounting system. Below is a picture and some info I found on the internet by someone who owns a Type 3. I've seen trikes made with Subaru automatic transmission running gear and for that matter V8 trikes and trikes built from front wheel drive cars with auto but of course then you have to start spending lots of money. Good luck on the search.

---

The type 3 models that were available with a fully automatic transmission had a completely separate rear sub-frame to support the drive train. The engine and transmission are not supported by the typical "frame horns" or "wishbone" structure; but by the sub-frame and an additional rear mount.

I'm pretty sure that the fully automatic transmission is too wide to fit between the "frame horns" on a Beetle. You would have to somehow convert the Beetle to the Type 3 setup.
With enough money and motivation, anything is possible, but if you really need a fully automatic, you would be better off finding a clean Type 3.

[rrunner]

A full auto is a different beast altogether. If it were me I would look at purchasing a trike with a full automatic setup already done instead if converting your present one. One way to off set the cost might be to sell any part of your present trike to put towards the purchase. Good luck on your quest.

[ea81slush]

Before I get to your questions, hope you leg gets better. I've had blood clots in both legs and have to wear stockings to keep them from swelling. Thats because the one way valves our legs have, that stop blood from falling down are damaged. Medication for the rest of my life I'm afraid. There is risk of a part of a clot breaking off and entering the lungs/heart. Had two relatives die from them.

I run a full type 3 auto tranny. Mine did have a 1916 VW now a EA81 Subaru engine with adapter plate.

The tranny is really robust. One thing you ahve to do every 7 years or 80,000kms is renew the seal between the tranny and the diff. It will fail and your unit will be toast.

Economy- same with any auto...about 2-3 mpg worse

The tranny has a top gear ratio of 1 to 1. so no overdrive.

however the diff ration in some are different. The kombi or transporter had a ratio of 3.9:1 and the type 4 sedan both with the type 3 auto had 3.67:1 ratio. Revs at 60mph are a little high at 3200 but it makes up for it with the convenience.

Google DAVE's VW type 3 automatic - you'll get some info.

Full gasket kits are available.

Handling is the same as it is balanced on the C of G.

You have to hold the trike stationary by slight brake
pressure only.

Get a full gasket and seal put in before installation. Band adjustment too.

Auto fluid is Dextron 2. Keep it topped up just over full.

Just below full and you'll lose first gear up slow steep climbs.

Kickdown is made by both vacuum and an electric solonoid the latter off your throttle.

Here are some pics.

[Doug D.]

Thanks, ea81 slush! I appreciate the info, just what I was looking for! Sorry for the late response, my computer shot craps and I've been off the radar for a while.

Sorry for your plight with the clots. I'm only 2 months in with the clot, but it's not showing much improvement, even with meds. Looks like this gonna be a life long ordeal for me, too. Even tried the stockings, but they only made the swelling worse, and the resulting pain was excrutiating. Next stop, vascular surgeon.

PEACE!!