Date:         Wed, 22 Mar 2006 21:56:18 -0600
Reply-To:     "Mark A. Kreuzer" <markk@OURWESTY.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         "Mark A. Kreuzer" <markk@OURWESTY.COM>
Subject:      Zetec Conversion Boston to Dallas Trip Report Day 1
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Once I get back to Dallas I'll have a full report on a website I've created
(including pictures).

Until then here are a few observations. some technical, some fun.

1.      I have an automatic and with the Zetec the Van really pops off the
line.  Unfortunately, shift points are still the same which doesn't allow
for full utilization of the power band.  The good news is that the shift
points can be changed.  Talked with Ken at German Transaxle about it.
2.      The engine doesn't really have a red line but a Rev Limiter instead.
We drove it in second gear and just let it rip until it hit the rev limiter.
Acts kinda like a formula one car when it hits that point.
3.      Put 600+ miles on it in the last day.  Not a single issue.
4.      I can actually accelerate going up a hill.
5.      Drove it at 4100 RPM's which is about 70mph.  My speedo is acting
all crazy so I'm using my GPS software to tell me my speed.
6.      Comes with an OBD-II scantool and software.  As I'm driving, my
laptop is showing me real time stats. My favorites are RPM, Water Temp, and
Fuel Pressure.
7.      I passed a lot of people.  It's still no rocket ship but it's
accomplishing my goals of reliability and more power.
8.      Highway mileage is around 18 but that was going thru the hills
(mountains, whatever) in NY.
9.      Last but not least, I'm actually looking out for cops!



-- mark

'85 Westy - the Kenny Huang