Date:         Thu, 20 Jul 2000 16:04:07 -0400
Reply-To:     John <johnpatt@warwick.net>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John <johnpatt@warwick.net>
Organization: PattonSystems International
Subject:      Re: air cooled eng convert.
Comments: To: Chris Stann <ChrisS@INFORMS.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Chris Stann wrote:
>Forgive my bewilderment. I don't quite understand many people's willingness to put a non-VW engine in their Vanagons.  I understand you need more power.

Hi Chris,

I agree that the WORST thing we can do is install non-VW power in a
Vanagon. Even an in-line VW motor can present serious challenges to the
balanced design of the Vanagon. Unless full fabrication facilities are
available, the conversions are usually half-ass and potentially
dangerous. While some conversion kits are well intended, ALL of them
leave "loose ends" that keeps the owner working on the conversion
indefinitely. The rattles, drumming noises and odd quirks can go on for
years after the so-called conversion. The belief that VW techs will want
to work on such a creation is nonsense. Home grown conversions relocate
fuel lines, wiring and rotating belts, opening up new opportunities for
personal injury, collateral damage or time consuming mistakes. Shops
that will work on a conversion are quick to limit their warranty due
soley to the conversion. Also the highest resale values for vintage type
2s are always for stock, original condition. If you must convert to
another type engine, do it in a Chevy, Dodge or Ford. There aren't that
many Vanagons left.

Regards,   John