Oboy. here comes 2 cents from Passat. AKA Passit. lol.Since I went stock Vanogon clutch (228 mm)with springs in the middle, I can't remember breaking any trans since. Hi jacking my own thread, these IMI starters. Put a dab of RTV on exposed battery cable copper strands (On a dry day!, don't lock in moisture). Dry strands suck in rain or splashed water like a dry sponge. The water sits in the swedged terminals or down in the cable plastic coating and corrodes (green copper and white powder). As months go by, you crank the motor and it turns over slower because of the low voltage trying to pass thru with a big demand. Sure the cable is over heating and smoking, but don't stand there and think that your copper wire windings in the starter and the solenoid copper contacts, aren't. The entire circuit is getting hot! And remember. For strong power for starters you need fatter cables the further your battery is away. And go with the highest cold cranking amp battery. Amps are like money in the bank verses living paycheck to paycheck. Drawing down a battery repeatedly, shortens the life as well. And don't move yer buggy with the starter either! And don't use your trans for brakes unless it's an emergency. And if you see me out in the woods, loan me some money. The best way to test someone's friend ship is, borrow some money from them and do not pay them back...And if they get all puffy about it... You did not need them as a friend no way!
Thanks for the advice everyone I appreciate it!