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		DRIVETRAIN OVERVIEW As my Vanagon is equipped with a manual transmission, I will confine my comments here to manual trannies. As on most vehicles, the engine's output shaft is mated to a … Clutch Evidently, some very early models of the Vanagon utilized a mechanical cable to operate the clutch release, while all later models used a master-and-slave-cylinder hydraulic system to connect the clutch pedal with the release mechanism located in the gearbox and bellhousing.     The hydraulic system is self-adjusting, and generally requires no maintenance other than maintaining proper fluid levels in the reservoir, which is shared by the brake system. Periodically inspect the system components for evidence of leaks, in which case they must be replaced, and replace the fluid with fresh fluid every two years (same with the brake fluid). The clutch itself is of the single-plate diaphragm type, with a spring-cushioned hub to prevent judder upon takeup. Manual Gearbox From the clutch, power is transmitted to the gearbox through four or five synchromesh forward gears and a reverse gear. Because the engine and gearbox are located at the rear of the van, and you by necessity are in the front, shifting is accomplished via a lever which actuates a rather long and convoluted series of rods and joints, all hanging on the bottom of the van and subject to lots of water and salt and dirt. Occasional cleaning and lubrication will keep the linkages functioning smoothly.     Transmission maintenence generally consists only of periodic inspection for leaks and proper fluid levels. VW claims the transmission fluid never needs to be changed, but many owners opt instead to drain and refill every 60- or 90,000 miles. Axle Shafts Power from the integrated gearbox & differential drives the wheels through a pair of axle shafts, each end of which is supported by a constant velocity (CV) joint. These typically require no more maintenance than periodic inspection for split or damaged rubber boots. If dirt is allowed to contaminate these joints, or if too much grease is flung out of them, they will begin to wear, making distinctive rumbling or grinding sounds or vibration, especially when going around corners.     The manuals claim that if the boots are in good shape, no maintenance is required, but some owners believe in cleaning and repacking these joints every 60,000 miles or so. Wheels The wheels on the bus go round and round, assuming they have been properly maintained. Periodically check the condition of the rear wheel bearings by giving the wheels a firm wobble: side to side and top to bottom. Looseness indicates the bearings need adjustment or perhaps replacement. Fairly simple ball- and tapered-roller bearings, these are easily inspected, lubed, or replaced.