Date:         Tue, 18 Sep 2007 11:46:20 -0500
Reply-To:     Bart Holmquist <barth@UNLSERVE.UNL.EDU>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Bart Holmquist <barth@UNLSERVE.UNL.EDU>
Subject:      '84 Vanagon Valve problem?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; delsp=yes; format=flowed

Hi All,
I made the 650 mile trip from Lincoln, NE to Winfield, KS without
problems except for an incident 60 miles from home.  All was fine
(drove at 50 to 55 mph getting ~25 mpg, with smooth running
wasserboxer, 1.9 L) when all of a sudden it sounded like I had lost
an exhaust gasket or exhaust manifold, with loud noise like a blown
manifold from right side of engine and loss of about 25% power.  I
continued for a few minutes until I could pull over to check it out.
No apparent leaks of oil or coolant and the noise had subsided.  Got
back in and drove off with the noise gone for the remaining trip home
of 60 miles.  This happened on the previous trip of 160 miles where I
made it to camp then checked out the engine.  I saw that the ignition
wires were laying on metal so supported them with electrical tape
(temporary) and all seemed OK and made it home again without issue.
What is happening?  I am thinking that  the exhaust valve on one
cylinder may be sticking open? Could it be something else?  If so,
what? If it is a sticking valve what would you do?  Marvel Mystery Oil?
Right now it seems to run OK so not sure where to start looking for a
cause.  Was told the "replaced" engine has 30,000 miles on it.
Suggestions, please.
Bart Holmquist
402-310-9338