Date:         Sun, 7 Nov 2004 17:37:43 -0500
Reply-To:     John Runberg <jrunberg@MAC.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Runberg <jrunberg@MAC.COM>
Subject:      1.9 -- post mortem + jetta death
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A little while ago I posted about low oil preassure in my 83 1.9 westy. Several people had good suggestions, but after hearing all the opinions I went ahead and had it rebuilt. After tearing it down, a couple things were discovered:

- the engine was original and so were the heads
- only slight corrosion was apparent on the head sealing surface. We replaced them, but they are available if anyone needs a set to rebuild
- PO, who had mentioned that he 'stretched' the oil preassure return spring reinstalled in backwards. It's been replaced.
- pistons and cylinders appeared to be in great shape with honing still apparent.

And now the fun part:
- the main bearings between #2 & #3 were toast and galling was apparent. That explains the low oil preassure.
- it appears that as things opened up there the problem got worse (duh)
- the cam and cam bearings directly opposite were worn as well.

Everything else on the inside appeared to look OK. Case had external problems and had to be replaced anyway, but that was the only surprise. She's back now and runs beautifully.

-----------------

On a sadder note, (w/ little vanagon content) my '99 Jetta got clipped a couple weeks ago. Although she's drivable, the damage exceeded the value of the car and has been totaled. I'm buying it to put the ABA into my other van (one day...) but everything else is available besides the stereo. Holler if you need anything.

john