Date:         Thu, 6 Mar 2003 20:41:09 -0400
Reply-To:     Mike B <mikeyb@THECABLE.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Mike B <mikeyb@THECABLE.NET>
Subject:      Re: I4 conversion survey
Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII

I am replying with information about a conversion that my friend did a while
back.  I am not still in touch with my friend, so I don't know the car's
current status.

Someone out there might even know him.  If you know where he is now let me
know.  His name is Sean and his parents, Skip and Norma, used to own a
German repair shop in Edison Furlong, PA.  He also had a silver Audi Coupe
that was amazing.

1. kit or self devised (if kit which one?)

MSDS with a 3.2l Porsche 6.

2. year done

1993 I think

3. miles on van since conversion

I knew he put on about 25,000 the last time I saw him.

4. problems (if any) associated with engine conversion

European Car magazine!  He originally purchased a nice 3.6l Porsche Engine
for installing in his 1986 Syncro Westy (I think '86) because in a European
Car magazine article it said "Can use up to the 3.6L Porsche 6."

Well, he bought the engine first, then when they kit arrived he learned that
only a 3.2l would fit.  It seems that the 3.6l has dual spark plugs and
wouldn't fit.

5. aspects of conversion that you ARE happy with

Power, looks, sounds, and general coolness factor.  In our youthful
stupidity we would go out in the rain and race Mustangs.  It was fun to see
their face when a camper left them FAR behind.

The impetus for the conversion was our drive to Michigan to see our friend
race his team's Formula SAE car.  On the ride back we got passed by a loaded
trailer and my friend had the Westy floored.

6. aspects of the conversion you are NOT happy with

I am sure there must have been something because my friend is very picky and
detail oriented.

7. Cost of conversion

Can't remember the kit cost.  I know the engine ended up free.  He bought
the original 3.6l for $5,000.  Then when he found out he couldn't use it, he
sold it for $7,500 and bought a nice 3.2L for $2,500.

MIke