Date:         Mon, 31 Mar 2003 14:50:59 -0700
Reply-To:     Sean Garrett <SEAN.GARRETT@ASU.EDU>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Sean Garrett <SEAN.GARRETT@ASU.EDU>
Subject:      VW Engines and Reliability
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

I have a 1981 Vanagon Westy I rescued from the crusher 3 yrs ago, two yrs up
on blocks, while I attempted to rebuild the engine. I ended up taking it in
for rebuild (block only) but did all the teardown and put all the FI/exhaust
etc... back together myself.

It is trouble free. The only thing that annoys me the most is highway speed
noise levels. I think that because I did not use a balanced crank and I have
lots of noise generated by vibration/resonance (???). This is just my guess.
It just may be that the engine is noisy period ! However I also tore out the
entire interior aft the drivers seat. Then insulated the van floor and
sidewalls with noise dampener and regular auto insulation. I think this has
cut down on some noise but cant be sure because I had nothing to compare to
previously.

I am now going to restore a 1987 Syncro but have looked at the prices of
motors and will be putting in a late model/low mileage Subie 2.5 l engine.
the cost is the almost the same and IMHO I am getting a better (more modern)
engine (ZZZZIIIP, flame suit on).


Sean Garrett
1981 Westy (his)
1995 Eurovan Camper (hers)
1987 Syncro project (Subie 2.5)
sean.garrett@asu.edu