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Date:         Fri, 8 Mar 2002 23:28:13 -0600
Reply-To:     John Rodgers <jhrodgers@MINDSPRING.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Rodgers <jhrodgers@MINDSPRING.COM>
Subject:      Re: Exhaust wrpap was Rust factors was..POR-15
Comments: To: developtrust <developtrust@COX.NET>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

> developtrust wrote: > >> >> >> I also decided NOT to do half Lilly or full Lilly upgrades. When you add up >> the cost of upgrades for a mere few horse power more, one has to ask if the >> extra performance is worth the effort. I decided to drive more slowly and >> enjoy the trip rather than get there faster. >

I think the point of the Lilley upgrade was missed here. His work in the makeover of the engine was focused on increased longevity of the engine. It never was on increased horsepower and speed. Reading his writings it was clear to me that great effort was made to reduce vibration, reduce heat, increase thermal efficiencies, etc. The increased horsepower and performance were simply the fortunate extras gained by the makeover, but again, they were not the principle focus.

Over all, I think the WBX is probably a pretty good engine. The 1.9L I had in my 85 GL got over 205,000 miles on it and never had a rebuild. By the time I disposed of it, it did use a little oil but nothing dramatic, and it sitll had plenty of power. At 195,000 or so the water pump failed, but that was the only mechanical that ever occured on the engine itself, and that didn't necessitate tearing into the engine for repair.

The WBX 2.1L in my 88GL was a horse of another horsefeather however. Blew a hole in a piston at 89,000 mile. I bought it used off a lot and it was evident the PO had really abused the vehicle. However, with the engine torn down, it was easy to see that a good rebuild with the Lilley specs adhered to would give a good performing engine that should last a very long time. I was fully prepared to go the route, when I got an offer on another fresh rebuild ready to go that I could not pass up. So I had my van immediately back on the road, and a spare 2.1L carcass in the garage just waiting for a Lilley style rebuild. It will be a fun project, and should be ready when I step up to a later model with an automatic tranny. (getting old knees - all that clutching on the manual tranny in the city)

Most people I know that have Vanagons AND TAKE CARE of THEM have few problems and get good service. Since I put in the new engine two years ago, all I have had to do was change the oil and filter at regular intervals, and change the coolant once a year. Kinda boring in one sense, but I surely am not going to complain.

John Rodgers 88 GL Driver


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