[urq] Speedo & difflock conversion for later trans install

[Buchholz, Steven]

No BTDT, but I suspect this might be a bit of a tough one to convert to electronic.  Actually, there is one way ... switch over to a digidash (which would require the newer dash/IC).  The problem is finding a digital speedo which will fit in the urq's IC ... I don't think there is one other than the digidash.  It is probably best to convert the tranny to handle the cable.  

If you have a stock '83 there are only one pair of vacuum lines going back to the rear diff anyway, so you can leave them as they are and use them to control the rear diff.  The newer cars have the center diff actuator mounted on the tranny, which means the lines are very short.  If you are sticking to the both locked or both unlocked scheme like the car originally had you would need to tap the two new lines in at the diff lock switch.  The Bowden cable and center diff lock actuator mounted near the rear diff can then be disconnected and removed.  If you want to go to the 3-position setup it is documented in the Bentley.

Steve B
San José, CA (USA)
> 
> Along with updated engine install I'm in process of installing a transmission
> from an '87 turbo quattro wagon into my '83 UrQ.  I'm wondering if anyone
> knows how to utilize/interface the 5kt electronic speedo - has this been done
> successfully, or is it simple best to retrofit the trans with the speedo gear
> from the earlier cable unit?  That seems like it should be straight-forware
> although having the speedo from the avant would be nice - I don't even know if
> it goes in to the Instrument cluster, much less what is needed to wire the
> electronic speedo.
> 
> Also, need info. On converting to accommodate the vacuum difflocks, as the '83
> trans. Diff is activated from cable in rear  - I think.  It would be nice to
> eliminate the cable which  snagged when dropping the engine and trans out -
> the last thing I overlooked when yanking motor and trans.