Date:         Mon, 2 Jul 2001 12:36:35 EDT
Reply-To:     FrankGRUN@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Frank Grunthaner <FrankGRUN@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: [Syncro] WTB: inline4 powersteering bracket
Comments: To: drillock@earthlink.net
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="US-ASCII"

In a message dated 7/2/01 8:43:31 AM, drillock@EARTHLINK.NET writes:

<< If anyone with a diesel Vanagon and stock engine mounts has mounted PS,
A/C, or both, please share how you did it and how long it has been
working. I can see how custom brackets might help but given the massive
bracket reinforcements seen on many of the stock VW diesel engine
accessory systems there must be some vibration problems to be overcome
for long term reliability. A failure of one bracket or belt can easily
cascade into a failure of all of the belts. I will do without the PS and
A/C rather than risk this if a reasonable looking solution is not found. >>

Mark,

I too was impressed by the heft of accessory mounting brackets, and agree
that they must be in response to a serious vibration problem. This heft is
also evident in the I-5 (gas and TD) and I-6 (TD) engines, although these may
just be common parts bins. Contrast this with the Japanese balance shaft
motors and the Saab 2.3 L engine.  In my gas engine conversion, I am const
antly plagued by the breakage every 4 to 5 months of the bolt holding the
alternator tensionator to the block. I have switched to aircraft quality
bolts to no avail.

Frank Grunthaner