Date: Tue, 29 Aug 2006 10:46:24 -0300
Reply-To: "Giasson, Pascal (DNR/MRN)" <Pascal.Giasson@GNB.CA>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: "Giasson, Pascal (DNR/MRN)" <Pascal.Giasson@GNB.CA>
Subject: Re: Exhaust problem - inquiry
In-Reply-To: A<082820061944.23421.44F347AB000D013600005B7D2205889116CE020E9C0E02020E@comcast.net>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"
Anna,
It all depends on what is "gone" and what needs to be done to get the
old components off. I had to replace my muffler (BTW I used a Stembro),
catalytic converter (Amico), all the gaskets (some were leaking at the
heads and at the joints), and put new studs in the heads (I helicoiled
all of them). I also resurfaced all my flanges on the pipes to get good
joints.
I decided to pull the engine to do this work as I figured it would be
less time and aggravation (and bloody hands) in the long run. I also
replaced the water pump and thermostat as preventative maintenance while
the motor was out...pretty straight forward.
So...I would have hated to have to pay someone to do all this work as it
was time consuming and the exhaust parts are expensive on top of that.
I would suggest you use someone who knows Vanagons and that you trust as
it could get costly.
Pascal
'84 Westy (that is now quiet...for a Vanagon)
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of annasan1@comcast.net >Anna QS<
Sent: August 28, 2006 4:45 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Exhaust problem - inquiry
Happy late summer to all - - can it almost be Labor Day???!!!
I plan to cross-post this to get mucho responses, so apologies
ahead of time.......
I would like to know just how major of a problem/disaster it is that
my exhaust system needs replacing? During previous work on my '86 2.1L
van I was told of probable upcoming exhaust problems. Well, "upcoming"
came real soon, like 2 or 3 days later, and now I sound like a noisy
motorcycle. This same mechanic told me the costs could range from $4-500
up to $1000. Can anyone share any exhaust/muffler stories and offer
advice to a non-mechanically-minded nurse??
I am still seeking a used westy interior in NW & No Cal
region - am tired of the Mickey-Mouse job done on this van! I would
like the entire side unit including tables, etc. Anything to fit an '86
but can retro-fit.
ALSO - will consider a handy/crafty/ carpenter type person to do custom
interior ??!!??
We are in the Portland OR area; the place I took "Blue
Mongrel" to was recommended via one of my trusted listserv groups. I am
cautiously entering the VW-woes CLub, but have fixed income so this
really sucks.
I find myself doing the "woulda-coulda-shoulda shuffle"!
Any & all responses to list or P-mail to help me with this are greatly
appreciated.
Thanx - Anna QS
--
" Lord keep Your arm around my shoulder
and Your hand over my mouth."
