I had one of the VW "Automatic StickShift" equiped Beetles. A set of
contacts in the shift lever controlled a vacuum solenoid which in turn
controlled the clutch. The car also had a torque converter like an
automatic.
Although it was great fun to drive, the use of the torque converter
caused a serious loss of power at low speeds.
The reason I got the car, which was in excellent shape, was because the
owners couldn't get the local VW dealer to properly service the Auto
StickShift. The clutch release rate varied with engine vacuum and the
contacts, which were not replaceable except by replacing the shifter,
were prone to arcing and wear.
After a week cleaning everything up, I never had problems with it for
the next 2 years that I owned it.
Ackley, Aaron T wrote:
>
> i would think it works much the same way the Porsche "Sportomatic" of
> early 70s fame worked...
>
> a microswitch on the shift lever and a vacum actuated clutch. When you
> grab the stick, the switch closes and the clutch opens, change gears and
> release the knov, the clutch engages.
>
> This was available on 914s (my other bad habit..) and 911s of early 70s
> vintage.
>
> I think the VW semiautomatic worked the same way. FWIW, i have heard
> they are very smooth to drive, as long as they are in proper working
> order. Takes a bit of getting used to, but i have never gotten to drive
> one.
>
> aaron
>
--
George Richardson
'57 TR3, TS15559L
(getting ready to paint - and now on the web!)
http://www.merlingroupinc.com/tr3.htm
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