Date: Wed, 12 Jan 2000 23:51:38 EST
Reply-To: Wolfvan88@AOL.COM
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Robert Lilley <Wolfvan88@AOL.COM>
Subject: Some points on why the Wasserboxer was the way for me...
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
When I was looking at engine alternates, I saw that each type of engine has
its own unique set of problems.
I looked at the water-cooled VW news group, and saw that the inline engines
had engine problems too- head gasket, oil problems, etc., FI problems,
transmission problems.
The SUBARU engines have their own set of engine problems...
And the Wasserboxer has its own problems which are well known.
When I looked at the engine possibilities AND my POCKETBOOK, I choose to
address the Wasserboxer problems (Which were relatively simple) rather than
try to make some engine fit by reengineering the engine to the engine
compartment fit. And waiting for the next problem to come along. I also
like the fact that there is no timing belt to break or replace.
I was thinking about VWs use of hoses and why are the hoses on the outside of
the engine rather than built into the engine...Could it be that it is cheaper
to replace a hose on the outside rather than remove an inline head to replace
a blown gasket... just a thought...
What I wanted to give fellow vanagoneers that need AND WANTED to rebuild
their engine a way to increase the power, reliability AND fix the
troublespots in the Wasserboxer engine without a lot of added costs compared
to replacing and reengineering their van for a different type on engine.
The only thing that required a little engineering was in adding the muffler,
I had to bend the mounting arms down a little and make a strap to fit the
larger 6" round muffler, the rest is done by the machine shop or is bolt on.
The only problems I have had is to fix the damaged FI components (from a
short in the wires going to the hall sensor BEFORE I bought the van) I have
replaced all FI parts except the computer (repaired) and fuel pump. The other
main problem was the locking diff acting up and UPS dropping and damaging my
tranny (Replaced with a NEW .457 from Weddle).
I could make it go faster but that requires more money...
Rods @$300
Oversized pistons @$ 700
Clearance case ???
stroked crank @$1000
Also I kind of took the upgrades as a type of challenge...
Robert
