Date:         Thu, 20 Apr 2000 18:53:07 -0400
Reply-To:     Mike Barfield <barfield@GTE.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Mike Barfield <barfield@GTE.NET>
Subject:      Re: I'm Siiiiiinnnnngin' in the Rain!
In-Reply-To:  <38FE43CC.91C07344@bigfoot.com>
Content-Type: text/plain

Isn't a 230 HP Subaru SVX a little over-kill? Can the transmission handle
this much power? Don't get me wrong, I've just bought an '84 westy with a dead
engine that I plan to replace with a 2.2L Subaru. I just don't like the idea of
eating up transmissions. I'll be going from 83 HP to 130 HP, more than enough
power for my idea of cruising down the highways and byways. While I may be
looking for a tranqual trip down the road, I understand that some enjoy getting
there ASAP. Fine with me but, I'd think you'd better plan on replacing the
transmission with something stronger. Good luck.

Mike Barfield
barfield@gte.net


On Wed, 19 Apr 2000, ed wrote:
> The rain of coolant, that is.  I suspected I was in trouble when the
> expansion tank kept coming up dry.  We just bought this 86 Syncro a few
> months ago, and all signs pointed to a reasonable chance of decent engine
> life, at least for a while.
>
> Well, it lasted longer than my old Triumph Stag (bought used with 60k miles,
> lasted 2 weeks), and I was expecting to have to do something in the engine
> bay (my wife's a lead foot) but now I have to figure which one.
>
> Lilley-esque 2.1 rebuild.  1.9TD, 2L gas, 1.8T, VR6, 2.2 or 2.5L Subaru.
> 3.2L Porsche 6 (mmmmmm - my mechanic has a 3.6 turbo and C2 5-speed
> available... who needs AWD?).  So many choices, so many compromises.  If $$
> were no object, I'd go for a Carrera 4 Tiptronic drivetrain, I think, but
> will settle for the right combination of improved speed, reliability, and
> cost-effectiveness (not necessarily cheapest).
>
> The list and archives have all the objective info I need, but if anyone in
> the Wash DC to Philly area has an interesting conversion story and is willing
> to offer a test drive, I'd appreciate hearing from you.
>
> Cheers -
>
> ed devinney
> Purcelville, VA