Date: Mon, 11 Aug 2008 10:42:26 -0700
Reply-To: David Kao <dtkao0205@YAHOO.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: David Kao <dtkao0205@YAHOO.COM>
Subject: Re: Engine Replacement Options
In-Reply-To: <467CC245-8CC7-47C5-9D29-DF3CC2A1F324@mac.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=iso-8859-1
If you have a solid short block you can rebuild it at less than $1500.
A solid short block is the foundation for taking this route.
In order for the rebuild to be successful you should replace both
cylinder heads with a set of new OEM heads. This will cost anywhere
from $800 - $1k.
You will need to replace the cylinder/piston liner set with a new
set of Cofap liners. This will cost you about $300 or less. Thanks god
Cofap does work and work well.
You will also need a head gasket set for about $100.
You will need to do it yourself to save cost for paying a mechanic.
If you are not confident in doing it yourself then you need to find
a dependable experienced Vanagon mechanic to do it for you.
I rebuilt my 1.9 last year assuming I have a solid short block.
My 1.9 WBX engine had 110K original miles. It had a solid one.
The cylinder heads were 20k+ miles new (VW OEM). I bought a
set of Cofap for about $200 and a gasket set for less than $100. I
did the work myself.
My total cost was well within $600. My recent trips to Yosemite have
proven the success of the rebuild. If your short block is solid new
Cofap and heads will restore your WBX engine back to like new.
This is the easiest way to go. Of course there are conversions to
choose from too. They are usually more expensive. You do get more
power out of the engine. You will have to decide if you need extra
power for the Syncro.
David
--- Jon Rizzo <the_rizzos@MAC.COM> wrote:
> I feel I am at an impasse regarding the replacement of the engine my
> syncro westy. I am definitely on a pretty tight budget (under4000) but
> don't want to cut corners that will only cost me money later. I have
> have spent the last month researching options. I have narrowed it down
> to three choices and I would love to have the opinions of this board.
>
> 1) rebuilt wbx motor, I know bus depot has them available but I am
> unsure about their rebuilder even after speaking with them on the
> phone. I can't get Boston Bob to return my phone calls soo... cost
> 1800-2800 plus my labor
>
> 2) used 2.2, smallcar parts kit. I have a neighbor with a 92 legacy
> that could part out to save some money, but I am nervous about the
> wiring part even though I have some experience in that area. cost
> 2450-3450 plus my labor, minus what I could part out the legacy wagon
> for.
>
> 3) used 2wd vanagon with a 2.2 conversion already in place that I
> could then part out and recoup some of my money. This seems to be my
> best option as I could drive the van and could make sure all the parts
> work together and who doesn't need more spare parts around? cost
> 3000-3500
>
> Let me know what you think.
>
