O2a to O2j shifter conversion..

[bbob203]

Anyone here done this on one of there cars? stuff on vortex about it nothing current though. Wondering if I got all the bits from and mk4 at the junkyard if it would work in a b3. Seems like the way to go for cable shifters.

[rodpaslow]

I agree, all the stuff I've looked at is now saying that the newer MK4 shifter (after 2000.5) and the 02J tower on an 02a is the best way to go.  I have and 02A i plan installing in my MK3, I have just about everthing except a clutch and starter, but now it sounds like a guy should sell the MK3 shifter box and get a MK4.  I think finding an 02J shift tower may be the problem.   I looked last night online-does a guy have to go to the closest vw dealer and order the parts needed?  that could be pretty $$ costly.

[TylerDurden]

Seems relevant....  http://www.golfgtiforum.co.uk/index.php?topic=221752.0

[rodpaslow]

Thanks, but I've scoured over the net and I saw and read this link.  I still haven't found if I can just replace the top "casting"/tower as being the part that need changing and I can re-use all the other parts that are already in the 02A---or do I need a complete 02j tower being the casting, rod, spring and cup?

[rodpaslow]

I thought I'd add a couple notes - to remove the bearing in a 02j shift tower I've found the easiest way is to heat it and with the old seal removed you can catch the edge from the top and just tap it out.  I should say it doesn't need to be heated much, otherwise you'll melt the vent cap and lock. Tap the new seal in the top and new bearing in bottom. (if you're replacing it)

I also have seen questions about changing the cable in a 02A.  It's relatively simple as the drive part screws into the transmission and at the top of this drive, the cable screws into the drive.  I wanted electronic VSS, so all I had to do is remove the cable and screw the electronic sensor where the cable had been.

[vanbcguy]

From what I read on the Vortex it sounds like you need the complete shift tower for the O2J.  I certainly would be interested in hearing your final results though.

BTW I found out you can get a Polo shift box (for the shifter itself) and swap all the 02J parts in to it.  It then bolts in to the Mk3 chassis without any modifications!!  There's a few sellers who have the shift box, though you still need an 02J shifter to get the guts.

[CRSMP5]