Date:         Wed, 29 May 2002 18:06:49 -0700
Reply-To:     Neal Hansen <nhansen@DAKOTACOM.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Neal Hansen <nhansen@DAKOTACOM.NET>
Subject:      Re: problems after head swap in '84 1.9
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

Sounds like you already have this one figured out! I would follow your hunch and check the compression.
                                    Neal
Date:    Wed, 29 May 2002 09:16:44 -0500
From:    Steve Sandlin <vwcarlocks@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: problems after head swap in '84 1.9

I posted to the list several weeks ago and got some ideas, but nothing
worked out.  I changed the heads on my 1.9 using new heads from Ron.  Set
the valves to zero lash (rockers just touching valves).  Engine would not
idle, and some clatter.  Reset to two turns in per Bentley.  Engine runs,
but very low on power and will not restart hot.  Turns over very fast as if
no compression.  Let it cool for about 30 minutes and will start.  I'm now
set at 1 turn in, and it will start, does not clatter, but is still way down
on power, and fuel mileage is poor.  Timing is corect.  I may be doing
something wrong, but don't think so.  I'm almost tempted to put the old
heads back on, but that becomes a fairly expensive proposition due to cost
of gasket set.  Any gurus have other ideas?
Thanks,
Steve Sandlin
Steve's Lock Shoppe
'84 Wolfsburg Westy
'79 Kombi
'00 New Beetle