Disabled with a 71 super

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Codyd31691
Posts: 1
Joined: Tue Jul 09, 2024 8:48 am

Disabled with a 71 super

Post by Codyd31691 »

Hello everyone I'm cody. New here and new to the vw community. My dad recently passed and I have acquired his 71 super beetle. I am disabled so my leg use is limited so I was thinking about a autostick so I could drive the vehicle. My questions are 1 will a auto stick fit the stock motor of a 71 with Opposed 4 (1585 cc | 96.7 cu in. | 1.6 L.) Motor and 2 what other modifications could I do to the vw for disabilities. I'm open to almost anything even a simple motor swap if need be just for a automatic transmission as I'm not worried about going original. Let me know what yall think and look forward to being a part of this amazing community.
Bruce.m
Posts: 992
Joined: Sun Aug 11, 2013 1:44 pm

Re: Disabled with a 71 super

Post by Bruce.m »

In theory, the auto stick gearbox could be fitted to a ‘71 super. However they are not very common & have some complications with a special oil pump on the engine and wiring to the gear shifter (which activates the clutch). So not a simple swap but doable.
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Piledriver
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Joined: Sat Feb 16, 2002 12:01 am

Re: Disabled with a 71 super

Post by Piledriver »

A full automatic is also doable, but more involved. They are very commonly used on trikes for riders with limited leg use.
The frame horns that hold the engine up essentially have to go, and a different engine support setup is needed, the T3s/T4s and Vanagons all used latter setup is some variation. Have seen the stock frame horns "clearanced" and braced but there isn't much left. (the full automatics have wide sumps)

The rear section of a T1 doesn't have a sufficient structure for a rear hanger, but a Kafer brace setup similar to commercial units is doable, but you will want to make it stronger.

Throttle cable needs rerouted to use the much stronger Vanagon automatic.(090) fits in same place as 003 auto used in the T3s and 411/412s.
Addendum to Newtons first law:
zero vehicles on jackstands, square gets a fresh 090 and 1911, cabby gets a blower.
EZ3.6 Vanagon after that.(mounted, needs everything finished) then Creamsicle.
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