Volkswagen: transmission, vw bus, transmission problems

Question
Hi Ron,
I have a 1972 VW bus and it keeps popping out of first gear.  We had it checked out and we were told it's the transmission.  The guy who worked on it said he would not suggest getting the transmission replaced because he feels that it won't be worth it.  He says the engine sounds good, but he feels since it's a 1972 Bus it's not worth putting money into.  The bus itself runs well except for it popping out of first gear.  We would like to get a rebuilt transmission, but since hearing what the technician said we're feeling reluctant about doing so. His suggestion to us was to sell it.  This is our second bus and we would really like to put the money into it if it's worth it. The technician told us that transmission problems were common in the 1972-73 bus. He said we would be better off getting a bus from the later seventies.  Is this true?  What would you suggest doing?  
Thanks Leslie

Answer
Hi Leslie,

I checked with one of my contacts, transworks.  They can rebuild your transmission for around $400.00.

If your bus is in fairly good condtion, I would suggest getting a new one.  Selling an old bus with a bad transmission is likely to give you a poor return.

Here is the website, if you want to check them out.  I bought one from them for my 1976 about 6 years ago, and have not had any problems.  

http://www.transworks.biz/rebuilt.html

Good Luck however you proceed!

Ron