Date:         Tue, 6 Sep 2005 07:57:11 -0400
Reply-To:     Michael Edwards <medwards1@TRIAD.RR.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Michael Edwards <medwards1@TRIAD.RR.COM>
Subject:      Standard Repair Times - Rings / Heads
Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed; charset="iso-8859-1";
              reply-type=original

I just got some quotes from my local mechanic and wanted to run them by the
list for some feedback.  He looked up repair times on the computer, not sure
of the source, but I know it is a common practice for mechanics to look up
common tasks for quotes.  Anyway, he had to pull the heads to fix a
corrosion and leak problem.  This job came in at 10 hours.  Apparently,
removing the heads required removing the engine.  I also need a new set of
rings and he said this requires splitting the case, a 7.4 hour job.
Obviously, now is a better time to replace the rings so I don't loose the
labor already invested in pulling the engine and heads.
However, I thought changing the rings could just be done by removing the
cylinders.
Does this sound right?  Do you really have to split the case to change the
rings?
Also, why is it necessary to remove the engine to remove the heads?
I guess I should go ahead and put in a clutch while the engine is out.
Anything else?
Any feedback or references to information sources appreciated.
Thanks,
Mike