Date:         Mon, 19 Aug 2002 11:42:13 -0400
Reply-To:     Warren Chapman <vwsyncroguy@YAHOO.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Warren Chapman <vwsyncroguy@YAHOO.COM>
Subject:      Re: Need advice with buying a westy. have a couple in mind (new
              to list)

IMHO there are two reasons any engine conversion is attempted on a Vanagon.

1.  Better Reliability than the waterboxer

2.  More Power.

Number two is a given with the Subaru engines.

Number one is a matter of odds.  Again IMHO the odds are considerably more
in your favor with the Subaru than with the wbx.  This has been my case so
far with about 20,000 miles of trouble free driving....... but that is
still not a lot....ask me again after 100,000.

I installed my own.  I'm good with my hands but not knowledgeable about
auto engine mechanics.  If it had not run (or run correctly) after I hooked
everything up according to the directions, I wouldn't have known what to
do.  For mechanics,...... if and when you need one, (I haven't yet, but
there will surely be the day)....... I have checked with a few, just in
case. I have found that most independent shops that work on Subaru's will
work on the engine.  Its just another Legacy engine to them....except for
the wiring harness of course.  My family mechanic who does all Japanese
cars did my timing belt and seals before the conversion.  So if you live in
a major metropolitan area, you should not have any trouble finding someone
to work on it.   If you live in a rural or heartland type area where
American cars are the mainstay....you might find help to be scarce.

Fortunately there's a great body of knowledge available on the
SubaruVanagon Group now...much of it from professional or experienced
amatuer mechanics.  Just like there is on this list. As far as I know,
almost every problem that has come up and reported to the list has been
solved.  There are also now on the list two very user friendly versions of
the wiring diagram.....in color no less, which makes understanding the
wiring and how it all works quite easy.  Probably best to keep one of these
in your van at all times...just in case.  With one of these, almost any
competent mechanic will know what to do.

I agree that I would like to know who did the conversion and what their
experience level was....why are they selling the van..... is always a good
question.  If you live near someone experienced with the conversion, have
them look at it to check out the general level of workmanship.  Those of us
who have done it, know good work when we see it.

For general maintenance, about the same as any other vehicle.  You just
need to know what filters to use.

So in summary....my personal experience is that I have greatly fewer
problems and little for expensive Vanagon mechanics....except for the usual
bushings, CV's and boots.

Warren Chapman
Moderator
SubaruVanagon Group
Yahoo Groups