Ok, back to the test ride. So, we know that we need to go in and inspect the transmission issue. Check. Continue with the test ride.
Pushing the buggy backwards out of the driveway I jumped in and buckled up. I noticed the brakes were pretty soft, like there was a brake fluid leak or the shoes need adjusted, if there are even shoes left. Also, the steering is pretty sloppy, will need to check into that. The engine is sluggish but probably just needs a tune up and fresh plugs/wires/fluids/etc. As we attempt to accelerate away from the first stop sign I notice that the clutch is slipping dreadfully, like concerningly slipping. Like we have 1st gear, 2nd gear, and maybe a smidge of 3rd gear when accelerating, then nothing. And the clutch thing only gets worse the longer we drive it. After a few minutes, with a stop by the gas station, we now only have 1st gear and a smidge of 2nd gear while pulling away from the stop sign. Better not get too far from home. At this point we figure we probably need to turn back since we may need a rescue pick-up via our trailer.
Tanya has a video somewhere of the initial test ride showcasing the clutch slipping.
Back home I throw the buggy up on jack stands and begin the work.
First I begin by taking things apart, as I do with almost every project I start.
Pulling the rear wheels off I discover that the previous owner (PO) installed front wheel cylinders onto the rear brake hubs – later found out this is done to give more braking power to the rear wheels where all the weight is located.
Also, I make the decision to replace all of the brake componentry and hardware. New wheel cylinders (front from 1968 Type 1 Sedan).
New brake shoes
New springs.
I took off the adjusting screws for the shoes and cleaned all of that up, wire brushed the adjusters, sprayed with brake clean, and lubed/reassembled.
I checked the front brakes and did the same there, new hardware and componentry.
Then new soft brake lines at each corner, replaced the stainless steel lines from the PO and just installed the basic black braided rubber ones due to cost. Rebuilt master cylinder, and tested everything. Still felt soft, like there is a leak somewhere. Ok, this might get involved. Just be ready to dive elbow deep.