Date:         Wed, 19 Jan 2000 21:01:40 -0800
Reply-To:     Captain Ray Nemo <busray@YAHOO.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Captain Ray Nemo <busray@YAHOO.COM>
Subject:      Re: engine replacement in Texas
Comments: To: scottnorville@POL.NET, vanagon@vanagon.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

>>The bad news came today. The '83.5 Wasserboxer
engine is burned out and
must be replaced (after getting rear-ended,
cracking the coolant
expansion tank).

Well, this is arguably damage caused by the
collision.  Assuming you were the one rear-ended
and that the other guy has insurance, I'd
probably submit the damage on the claim against
the guy who hit me.  (Be prepared for the insurer
to argue that you were negligent in not noticing
the leaking fluid, not stopping when your coolant
light went on, etc.  They'll also say your not
entitled to the entire cost of a rebuilt engine
because yours had xxx miles on it.)

Your results may vary.  Not affiliated with the
certified psychic hotline.  Not an insurance
lawyer but I play one on TV.  See an attorney if
you have questions.  I recommend HKS, and I hear
he's available now that the Todd Hill mediation
is complete.  (Just kidding HKS)

>>The mechanic estimated $4400 with a VW factory
rebuilt engine. I know there are other
rebuilders, as well as other types of swaps.

See the archive for detailed discussions
regarding the various options.  There's been much
discussion in the last three weeks.  Suffice to
say that there are some advantages to a factory
VW engine, primarily the warranty.  Thus, I'd
have the dealer for installation if I bought a
factory rebuild.

Otherwise, AVP (direct or through vanagain.com)
and Boston Bob have excellent reputations on the
list.  I've never dealt with either but
reputations are hard-earned around this crowd.

See:
http://www.sacbiz.com/avp/
http://www.bostonengine.com/
http://www.vanagain.com/

I would personally lean towards Boston Bob or
buying the AVP engine through Ken Wilford
vanagain.com due to their helpful additions to
the list.  I would never use GEX or Fast German
Auto due to reported problems with quality and
customer service.

>>Does anyone in the Fort Worth area have any
experience with this?

sorry

Good luck,
Ray

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