In a message dated 12/18/02 12:18:31 AM, wilden1@juno.com writes: << I just think that its bad to put unreal dreams in the minds of people that hire out their mechanic work. It is just a goal they can never achieve. >> Stan, You have a very real point here that I don't often think about. My original comment, terse as it was for me, was only to note that my Westfalia was purchased new, delivered at the factory. When I encounter undocumented changes, I have only myself to blame! But back to your observation. I readily admit I enjoy the foray into engineering and welcome the opportunity to customize this already well designed machine to my own needs and wants. Often in this engine swap or redesign game, I suffer serious reversals. But its part of the whole experience. When I go to a shop for repairs, I am prepared to point out all the relevant changes, give them a sequence doc for things far removed from standard VW practice. On the other hand, those individuals who either don't do the engineering (by buying a kit) or paying a professional to implement the changes, miss this level of enjoyment! Trading cash for some of these experiences would seem a good to great idea at times. Unfortunately, many experiences with pricey kits seem less than fair to me. The TIICO smog theme is just unconscionable to me. The lack of stocked spares for key parts not part of the standard dealer inventory - amateurish. The lack of even Bentley quality installation material - shocking. The EuroSpec experience - sell a few and then abandon your clients - unbelievable. I'm waiting for Overland to sell their 50 units and then deny that they ever made them. Now the Kennedy/Subaru kit seems to make no claims for completeness. Just a set of parts offered to enable a swap. This seems a bit more above board to me. Still uses Japanese materials though. Recently had a chance to finally peruse an SAE paper on the Subaru engine technology and was very impressed. Certainly the 2.2 and 2.5 L engines are well worth the effort. Still the engine modification theme is a fascinating diversion. Simpler than designing the whole vehicle from the wheels up, but offering a sense of accomplishment when all comes together as a unique expression of ones personality. But I must agree that those with modest means, who must offer cash to a pro to put it together face a high probability of being burned. In this case, careful maintenance of stock propulsion is the more judicious choice. When I first chose to invigorate the diesel spinner in the tail of my vehicle, I wanted more vigor (and AC). I really didn't think about reliability. The diesel was boringly bulletproof, in my experience. Easy to drive. Limited set of options. As for the throttle, there was only full off and full on. The brake was on or off (also full thrust). Speed was controlled by choice of gear, time available and the sign and magnitude of the upcoming grade. My change to the inline 4 gasoline system has likewise been bulletproof. Now, I found my older A/C buses to be quite reliable. The performance of my 1600 cc powered Safare was very similar to the Vanagon diesel. Slower than sheep-dip. After adding the Corvair engine and drivetrain, this whale triggered adrenaline readily and profusely. The 1.8L digifant conversion is sprightly but not dangerous. The Turbo Audi project is designed to trigger stimulants - and provide another opportunity to get it right. With all this interest in turbos and the misconceptions being pontificated here, I'll have to peck out a response there too. Frank Grunthaner |
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