[T3] Max rpm

[Phil Hof]

In real work driving I am usually nowhere near redline, unless I am fight an uphill freeway onramp.  According to my tach I’m never over 4000 rpm, but there’s slight lag in the analog gauge.  My personal limits, based on how it feels, is 20 in first (rarely if ever seen), 35 or so in second, and 55-60 in third.  I top out at 80 and rarely hold that, though she will do so willingly.  In fact, she likes running 70 better then 60, probably due to being further up the power curve,more responsive and able to maintain that speed without a lot of throttle movement.

I made a spreadsheet thatI calibrated to the tables VW gives in their owners manual for my ’71.  All you have to do in input your gear ratios (again, from the owners manual for your year) and the tire circumference, which is easily found online or measured on your spare wheel.  It also has the automatic ratios.

I back fitted the rpm that give you VW’s stated top speed of 84 mph.  The normal redline is bout 4100 rpm using this table.  However, the 43mph figure in second gear yields is an eyebrow-raising 4800 rpm!

A screenshot is at:
http://images.thesamba.com/vw/gallery/pix/465522.jpg

I can email it to anyone who wants it.  Send me an email at:
philhof2002 at yahoo.com

-Phil Hof