It was suppose to be an upgrade...

Swapping gearboxes on the T3 is pretty straightforward. If everything goes smoothly that is. I wanted to swap my 4-speed for a 5-speed - if only it was as easy as it sounds.

[@louisvanrijn3964]

IF, if a VW T3 is properly maintained, the endurance is virtually infinite.
Harsh use, pulling heavy loads for longer times for instance, and predominantly the lack of regular maintenance causes these chafing/gearbox problems.
Maintenance , why do maintenance? Why change the gear oil? It works OK, isnt it?
Answer is here:
Gear oil deteriorates by moving (yes!) and by high temperatures (even more!). That is why you MUST change it every 100.000 kms.
Or face the metal splinters. Make your own choice.
Greets, Louis. 420.000 km's VW T3, 1980. First gearbox (!) and second engine.

[@BearBoris]

I can speak mostly for my country, but it probably goes for all around the world. The Germans made a car that can do the heavy work and not complain for a while. But people here see it's tough and rugged and simply abuse it even more - not giving it anything back.
On a side note - If there is a weak point in the construction of the T3 it's definitely the rust and the gearbox 😅.
Cheers Louis! I wish you 420 000 more! Send me a pick on instagram @bearbauris , I'd love to see it!
BB