Date:         Mon, 15 Oct 2001 12:36:14 -0500
Reply-To:     John Rodgers <jhrodgers@CHARTER.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Rodgers <jhrodgers@CHARTER.NET>
Subject:      Re: '88 Westy: Shopping for New Engine - Options?
Comments: To: Chris Paquette <cp@IX.NETCOM.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Chris Paquette wrote:

> Automatic transmission, 2.1 liter 1988 Westy.
>
> I need a new engine. I've seen many recommendations for Boston Bob
> (www.bostonengine.com), as well as a couple of warnings _against_ getting a
> GEX motor.
>
> What are my options beyond this, if any? Looking for recommendations on
> which way to go with this decision.
>
> If you were in my place, where would you get your replacement from, and why?
> My goal is to get together with my mechanic and tell him which engine I
> want, and why.

Chris, IMHO, the First Best Option is to get the engine rebuilt locally if you
can find the right mechanic to do the job. Reason being you have local recourse
if something goes wrong. Also, I have never seen an engine exchange goe 100% the
first time ever, regardless of who the mechanic is. There is nearly always some
tweaking that must be done after the engine is installed and the machine hits
the street for a short time. This is no reflection on the rebuilder, but does
reflect a bit on the mechanic, but all of us are human and things do happen.
Just bear with it and give the man a chance to work all the bugs of installation
out.

The second First Best Option is to get a Boston Bob's engine rebuild. The
opening line of your post says it all. "I have seen many
recommendations..........!"

Bob has instituted some new things in his rebuilds and they are sure to make the
engines even better. I'd say go for it if a local rebuild is not available.
Don't think I would waste my time anywhere else.

As for GEX ..... Don't!!

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver happy with his 2.1 WBX