VW MK1 Rabbit GTI Shift Rod Replacement (020 Transmission)

[@andrerodriguez7603]

Hello, I just wanted to give you heads up. I remember when those cars first came out (1984 GTI), I’m an old guy. There was a known issue with the close ratio transmissions. VW at the time thought it was smart to remove a circlip on the main pinion shaft to save a penny on every transmission. So, close ratio 020 transmissions from 1984 to 1986 had an issue with losing reverse and than, not being able to shift into second, I don’t remember what mileage this occurred at. This happened because the main pinion shaft would move, and the gears would get out of their proper location. The end result was a self drilling transmission. The pinion shaft would eventually drill a hole in the transmission case. In 1987 onwards, close ratio transmissions had the circlip put back on, fixing the issue. This is why the 1987 and onwards close ratio transmissions are what everyone looks for. Check your transmission code number and see what year your transmission is. If the reverse and second gear issue comes back, your transmission should be rebuilt, by someone who knows this issue, before the case gets a hole in it. Or find a low mileage 1987 onward 020 close ratio trans. Your GTI is a beauty.

[@json8172]

always nice to see more mk1 content. thanks for posting it.

[@jimmys_garage3656]

Thanks json, I’m glad you enjoyed it!

[@dumisanijack]

Damn thanks for the vid, my gears didn’t wanna shift, now I know it’s a rod

[@UncleLonno]

4:32 What is the name of the final ‘bushing’ the rod goes through? I need to replace mine, but I -can not- figure out what the name of that part is. 😊 TIA

[@leeverink32]

What year u got? i maybe can provide part codes. you can find a lot with those.

[@UncleLonno]

@@leeverink32Thanks! ’86 cabriolet

[@Team_A2]

the RAs look great, I do also really like the no talking vids

[@jimmys_garage3656]

I feel like RAs are such a classic OEM+ upgrade for MK1s. Thank you for the feedback; I am working on two more "no talking" vids (MK1 & MK6) that I hope to release this week.

[@kevsgarage17]

Super informative video! Great quality too. Liked and Subbed! Super clean car BTW 🖤

[@jimmys_garage3656]

Thanks for the feedback! I am currently working on another walkthrough video for part 1 of the MK4 R32 build. This build series is going to be a lot of fun....and also frustrating I bet!

[@nigel-Rollercam-channel]

Great Video, and a sweet ride!

[@jimmys_garage3656]

Thank you!

[@firingallcylinders2949]

I'm trying to put my Mk1 Rabbits shifter back together and even after lining everything up I can't find any gears

[@pabloxgarfias953]

Hello, good evening, sorry, my car has the same problem, could you please tell me where you bought the shift rod, I need to get it, thank you.

[@LangersVW]

Awesome job, you got a link to where your got the replacement? Also those H&R anti roll bar? They make a lot difference over standard??

[@mlungisicele8061]

Where can i buy that shift rod if i may ask? Is there a link i can check out?

[@stuartmcmillan2518]

Great video, wish my mk1 was this clean 😂

[@yushanramsing2793]

Tops i have the same problem as so my no2 gear broke so my shift rod is the problem

[@PravithRamphal-kf1bo]

Hi sir have a problem seetting gear on my mk1 golf it grinding in reverse but other gears a are fine what can be worn or do i set gears

[@jimmys_garage3656]

Hi Pravith, There are a few things I would try if you are grinding while trying to get in reverse: -Try re-adjusting the shift rod so that the reverse lockout tab is centered along the edge of the metal housing (as seen in this video). -Try changing your gear oil to a heavier weight (75W-90) -Check to make sure the shift linkage pieces between the transmission and the shift rod are all seated/not cracked. If none of these help, it is possible the reverse gear is chipped (common 020 trans problem). Good luck!

[@PravithRamphal-kf1bo]

Hi what typ of clutch cable does the car take long or short now bought a long cable n fitted on but will try drive it

[@jimmys_garage3656]

Hi Pravith, I am not aware of a short or long variation of the MK1 clutch cable. The clutch cable in my Rabbit is just a standard MK1 8V type, part number 171-721-335E. I hope that helps!

[@PravithRamphal-kf1bo]

Can u a video and show me please

[@jimmys_garage3656]

I will be doing a gear oil change video in the near future (hopefully)! I'll also do my best to add in some content about checking the linkages while I am in there.