Date:         Mon, 10 Jan 2000 09:22:33 EST
Reply-To:     Wolfvan88@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Robert Lilley <Wolfvan88@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Some Engine Conversions (fomerly "TO WATERBOXER OR NOT"??)
Comments: To: vanagon@vanagon.com
Comments: cc: Warren Chapman <warren8@earthlink.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

Now that I have most of my problems worked out (Computer, O2 sensor, AFM,
Throttle switch, Hall sensor, coil, spark plug wires, tight valves allowing
compression leaks, Injectors, bad locking diff in tranny) (Idle control
module next on the list for cold idle problem)

I am glad that I chose to modify my Wasserboxer engine.  I have built an
engine that has power from @1500 RPMs (in 1st - 3rd I can go down to @800
RPMs) to about 5600 RPMs (I have only taken it to 5K).

I can take 5th gear down to @35mph  @ 1500 RPMs and up to past 80 mph
smoothly.
4th gear can go down to @25 @1500 RPMs mpg and still pull smoothly back to 65
mph
It can accelerate  quickly now, I often lead the stop light pack if in front.
Coming onto off ramps, I can keep it in fifth drooping to @40 (Sharp curve)
going up hill and maintaining 45 mph.

I need to get the short shift kit from Gene Berg to improve my shifting

I have built the engine around my driving habits.  I do not like to shift
gears when I am not in an aggressive driving mood and when I am in the mood,
I can drop to a lower gear and fly...

The main power band is between 2200 to 4800


I have an 88' Wolfsburg, If I was in a heavier Vanagon I would bump the
compression up a little for a little more power.

The cost of my improvements would add less than @$1500 to the price of a
rebuild.

Gas mileage is @20 mph (heavier accelerations) - 22 mpg city and 24 mpg to 25
mph highway at @65 (I fixed a throttle switch problem so mph should maintain
or improve)

Best of all no conversion problems... It is still as factory designed only
much better.


Robert