Date: Tue, 15 May 2001 18:53:52 EDT
Reply-To: ThingGuy@aol.com
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Steve Lashley <ThingGuy@aol.com>
Subject: Re: Eurovans --help, comparison
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"
In a message dated 5/15/01 12:34:41 PM, macmillan@home.com writes:
<< I went through this exercise last year and learned two things: 1) the
five cylinder engines are junk. If you buy one, expect an expensive
rebuild soon since most are now over 100,000 miles, and suffering from
piston slap. 2) The six cylinder models are very expensive, even used. >>
I am in total disagreement with you. Most EVs are going over 200,000 miles
and are still going strong. The 5 cylinder is an excellent motor, and even
though the '92 and early '93 engines can have the piston slap, it doesn't
seem to reduce the longevity of the engine.
I'm pushing 150,000 miles on my '93 and have had no engine problems at all.
In fact, other than the normal parts you expect to go out, my EV has been
excellent and very reliable. I've only had to replace a few engine sensors,
transmission mount, radiator and coolant hoses, timing belt and pulleys and
water pump. Most of this has been preventative maintenance.
As for being underpowered, I'd be more than happy to put my stock EV up
against any stock Vanagon.
Don't comment on the EV unless you have first hand experience. I also have
heard some horror stories regarding engine and transmission problems on the
'92-'95 EuroVans. Most of these come from owners who bought the EV used and
did not have the service records and the vehicle wasn't taken care of.
I do not own a Vanagon, but it would be easy for me to say that most water
cooled Vanagons never see 80K without having at least a top end rebuild. I
could also say that the coolant hoses all leak and the fittings easily break
and engines give out before 100K.
If you were reading the EV_Update list on Yahoogroups.com, you may be scared
away by the postings of problems. The same would be true for the Vanagon
list, or any other automotive list. People rarely post that their vehicle is
running good and is reliable and never break down. Most people only post
when they have a problem and are looking for assistance.
Steve Lashley
SKL Enterprises
http://EuroCampers.com