Transmission gear interchange

COOPER HOLT

MEMBER
2002 VOLKSWAGEN JETTA
1.8L
4 CYL
TURBO
2WD
MANUAL
153,000 MILES

I have an 02J transmission and I have been reading that I could possibly interchange the Gear Synchros for first/second to the Synchros from the older 02A transmission and that it would be better?. Just looking for conformation because I can find a set for the O2A but I have had little to no luck on locating a set for the 02J.

6 Replies

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Hi,

It appears they measure basically the same so I assume they will fit. However, the major difference is the thickness of the teeth of the gears and blocking ring. The 02 J are thicker meaning they are stronger so if you put 02 A in then you may have an issue with durability.

I have never done this so I can't tell you that you won't have any issues but of the people that are doing it, they say it works.

Let us know what you find if you decide to do it. If you do, I would suggest only using the parts that you have to us and reuse your parts. Then of the parts you do use, compare them side by side and even measure them if possible just to make sure they are the same. Thanks

SPONSORED LINKS

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Wednesday, August 7th, 2019 AT 4:04 PM

COOPER HOLT

MEMBER
5 POSTS

Thanks for the reply, mainly just looking for a decent set up that would reliable for about a 200hp motor in the car. It'll have a new clutch with a solid flywheel. Any other recommendations and help will be greatly appreciated.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Wednesday, August 7th, 2019 AT 4:13 PM

COOPER HOLT

MEMBER
5 POSTS

Also, I want to tighten up the slop in the shifter and any possible slack in the shift linkage. Been looking at a few things but can't really make a choice on a cost efficient/tough kit.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Wednesday, August 7th, 2019 AT 4:16 PM

KASEKENNY

MECHANIC
18,907 POSTS

Well these may give you issue in the future no matter which you go with because that is more HP that the engine had with from stock correct? If so, then all your drive train components are going to wear out sooner then they would have. Not saying it is not worth it but just something to plan for when you get into the higher hp game.

As for the shift linkage, most short shifter kits will accomplish this. However, I am not sure which are best in this specific case.

Was this

answer

helpful?

Yes

Wednesday, August 7th, 2019 AT 6:23 PM

COOPER HOLT

MEMBER
5 POSTS

I have been looking at a short shifter, but I have also seen a kit for like 30 I think that comes with a different cup and some bushing for the OEM shifter that is supposed to take all the slack out. I believe its from dieselgeek. I don't really plan to go much higher if any really with the HP honestly its already a really zippy little car with crazy throttle response tbh lol. Thanks for all the help though!