Date:         Sat, 24 Apr 2004 11:49:46 -0400
Reply-To:     John Runberg <jrunberg@MAC.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Runberg <jrunberg@MAC.COM>
Subject:      Re: New Engine report

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This is an interesting thread, but there's too many variables to compare Frank's experience to someone else buying a Boston Bob engine:

- oil consumption
As Frank said, the engine is still being broken in. BTW- how hard/heavy/long should an engine be run while in a break-in period? When buying my 99 Jetta there were specific instructions which if they thought you violated they'd void the warrantee. Do rebuilt engines come with these instuctions?
- gas consumption
The trip from Canada to NC isn't the flattest drive in the world. For me, 17mpg wouldn't be too bad considering the elevation changes and possibly driving habits. I know I posted 23mpg, but that was pretty flat ground and (after one too many conversations w/ the police) I tend to drive w/ a really, really light foot.
- aftermarket chip
Does anyone have other experiences with this chip? I'm guessing it doesn't help gas milage at all... Who makes it and what warrantee/quality control is in place? Is it designed for the stock 1.9 or 2.1 or for the big valve?

It's important for all of us on the list to really understand the products being sold and the options we have when it comes time to replacing engines and other major bits. For me, unless I can accurately compare what I hear w/ similar reports then I can't use the info, and (personally) I need all the info that I can get.

The recent thread (from Vgonman?) about testing the FI components was an interesting thread that I hadn't seen before. Does someone have detailed instructions of all the steps that should be taken when installing a rebuilt?

john