Date:         Thu, 13 Jul 2000 17:54:35 -0700
Reply-To:     Matt Bezark <mbezark@uswest.net>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Matt Bezark <mbezark@uswest.net>
Subject:      my TIICO powered syncro westy is a rocket

i have an '89 syncro full camper.  recently, i bought a tiico kit from peter.  i traded my waterboxer (which was fine, i just wanted more power) with my mechanic for the labor to install the kit.

now that i've got ~1000 miles on it, here's what i think:

the good:

    very clean installation

    lots of power.  i live in the foothills of the rocky mountains in boulder, colorado.  travelling around the area was a chore.  there are hills and mountain passes between me and most of the recreational things i do.  with the wbx i'd be putting
along in 2nd gear around 35mph too often.  now i can easily be in 3rd gear at 55 in the same situations.  it's really nice to know that i can go up a long hill at 5000 rpm if i want to and not worry.

   better mileage.  i can't get consistent top-offs with my syncro, so it's not at all scientific, but it's obviously somewhat better.  maybe someday i'll run it out of gas, add 5 gallons, and see  how far i get.

the not so good:

    there was lots of extra work for the syncro that was not documented adequately.  the mechanic had to 'wing' various parts of the installation.

    using the standard exhaust, it sounds very agressive.  it's kind of amusing, but people probably think i'm the kind of wacko who buys loud exhaust to make his van sound mean or fast.

i'd be happy to talk to anyone about it via email or telephone: 303.434.7267.  also, if you're ever in the boulder area, i'll take you for a drive.

matt.