Date:         Wed, 16 Feb 2000 13:27:04 -0800
Reply-To:     Stuart MacMillan <stuart@COBALTGROUP.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Stuart MacMillan <stuart@COBALTGROUP.COM>
Organization: The Cobalt Group
Subject:      Re: 1987 syncro westy w/bad engine, what can be done?
Comments: To: Gary <aseat@HOTMAIL.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Gary wrote:
>
> Hi everyone,
> I've got a van with a bad engine, I was hoping for some advice on what could
> be wrong and what can be done.
> The van has 160,000 kms on it.  Burns lots of oil.  Body good though so I
> figure it is probably worth fixing.  I have experience with VW inline 4
> engines but know nothing about the flat fours.
> Compression is:
> 1 - 95 psi
> 2 - 115
> 3 - 120
> 4 - 20
> I would rather not have to buy a complete rebuilt engine as I can not afford
> that now.
> Is it worn out rings?

Yes

> Bad Head/valve(s)? Both?

Probably

> Can these engines be re-ringed only?

Yes, but it is not worth it.

> Should I get pistons with cylinders?

Yes, along with a complete rebuild.  This mill is worn out, and most
likely has suffered from abuse and poor maintenance.

> Are there any web resources on rebuilding VW flat fours?

http://bostonengine.com

> Any advice on removing the engine from the syncro chassis?

If you want to keep this Vanagon buy the Bentley, you can't get along
without it.

> I have the 1980 - 84 Bentley but I don't think it is very good.  Newer
> version is on hold at the library.

There are no cheap fixes that will last for a worn out engine, and they
are all just as much work as doing the complete rebuild.

You can throw in a can of Motor Honey, use 20w/50 oil, and squeeze a few
miles out of it, but you run the high risk of throwing a rod through the
case and turning it into junk.  Then you won't have a core to rebuild or
exchange.

Cheapest alternative: Used engine from the list, even a 1.9 if you get
all the ancillary parts to go with it. $500 to $1000, and start
collecting parts to rebuild your core.
Best alternative: complete rebuild. $2000 and up.

Sorry, there is no good news here.
>
--
Stuart MacMillan
Manager, Case Program
800-909-8244 ext. 8208

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