Date:         Mon, 2 Apr 2001 17:39:01 EDT
Reply-To:     SBWC919@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Brian McClure <SBWC919@AOL.COM>
Subject:      The engine conversion quandry- my comments
Content-Type:  text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

Hi all, just thought I would add my .02-if anyone cares.
I am currently driving a 1983 Vanagon that I converted to 2.2 liter Subaru
power about 6 months ago.
 Personally I prefer the Subaru to the wbx. Its quiter,smoother and seems to
be more reliable.
 Did I have any problems doing the conversion? Well yes, a few. The wiring
harness was time consuming, but not as difficult as some people would
believe.  The worst part I thought was redoing the plumbing.
 The swap is not for everyone, I agree, but in my case, it was the most cost
effecient way of getting my van on the road.
Total investment- about $1500. I coudnt redo my 1.9 for that, had 2
unrepairable heads, thanks to p.o.,
Regrets? Well in passing- I wish I had converted to an automatic rather than
a stick. this motor would be great behind a slushbox.
 Would I do it again??  IN A HEARTBEAT!!!!  When the body dies on this van,
the drivetrain is coming out and going int something  else.

Brian  (putting on flame resistant undies)
83 Urabus