Syncro 4&4 Discussion and Q&A last answered over 2 years ago.
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I have been scared by all the 'you'l ruin your gearbox' stuff I have seen mostly on maintenance info
Don't be... most of it is 'amplified noise'
If that really were the case then syncro boxes would explode the minute they went off-road, it's fatigue over years and miles and loss of oil that breaks gearboxes.
What do you mean - it gets stiff at 70mph, you can't possibly be turning sharply at 70mph!
Do you mean, stiif wehn maneouvring, 'after' you've been travelling at 70mph???
So after you've been doing 70 for a while, if you then have turn sharply or do a 3-point turn you notice the steering is 'heavy', or it scrubs really bad?
Have you checked your tyres for even wear front to back?
I assume my rear diff lock will be unaffected by removal of prop shaft? Can I still use it to get out of trouble in the sloppy stuff?
Yes, but you'll be surprised how incapable a Syncro is without the front drive.. possibly down to that 48/52 axle loading*. The best use of that rear difflock with the prop removed is to avoid any embarrasing moments when negotiating steep cross-slopes e.g. getting into your local garage that has a tight turn across a steep ramp
At my local tyre-fitters they used to have to stand-by... and then push when my prop was out and rear difflock not working - an example of the limited rear articulation
*.. and of course, how good it is with it! Even with Mud terrains and rear difflock engaged, you won't get up much of a wet slope with the prop out
As AAidan and I have found out.. the gearboxes suffer age related stress and wear.. then they sart eating themselves and then something breaks.. which in turn breaks a load of other gear...
if there was a "prcautionary" refresh when the box started showing minor signs of illness, then a lot of boxes would be ok..
But as they are old and people are loathed to spend money until anything actually breaks.. it doesnt happen..
Yep, they are not a lot of use with no prop and no rear difflock working.. but when the prop is in and a front locker.. it will go almost as far.as with a rear locker too..
Slight deviation from this thread but does anyone know where I can get a refurbished/replacement T4 VC?
Doug
PS Other than VAG!
80-90: 1053
Syncronauts: 15
T3 Syncro DOKA (makeover nearly finished)
T4 Syncro LWB Panel Van - now departed
T3 Syncro SIKA - deciding whether it's for the chop or worth saving
