Date: Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:51:37 -0400
Reply-To: Robert Stewart <robertmstewart@MAC.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Robert Stewart <robertmstewart@MAC.COM>
Subject: Engine repair or replacement?
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes
Hi Everyone,
More on my story...
My 88 automatic wolfsburg with 237,000 miles on it with a rebuilt
engine at 150,000 miles just had the head gaskets start leaking. Small
amounts of coolant are coming out.
I was told it's missing .5 inches on each side of the head. I have not
verified it yet.
Please note I just lost my job as dissolved the position and have a
couple months of severance an unemployment insurance coming in, so
cost is a big factor. I cant afford a lot but I want to do the right
thing. The van has been running fine for the most part and I only add
about a quarter of the coolant tank every 200 miles. So the leak is
not terrible
I have been doing some research and here are what appear to be the
options:
1. Use something like Bars STOP Leak - Head Gasket Fix WORKS WITH ALL
TYPES OF ANTIFREEZE! (
DOES THIS EVEN WORK?
http://www.barsproducts.com/1111.htm
2. Use something like Permatex on the edge (though I am told this wont
work it might be temporary fix)
3. Remove the engine and have the gaskets replaced $1200-$1500
4. http://www.alumiweld.com ? temporary fix.
5. Get a new engine
$975 & $190 shipping - Ken Morgan (Jake4parts on ebay)
I talked to this guy Ken Morgan who sells engines under the name
jake4parts on ebay. He has 2.1 L engine for sale for $975. I know some
people say that he shady, I am not sure. Spoke to him and he sounds
like a nice guy who is knowledgeble.
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1986-1991-VW-Vanagon-Rebuilt-2-1L-Engine-Long-Block_W0QQitemZ320284970269QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item320284970269&_trkparms=39%3A1%7C66%3A4%7C65%3A10%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p3911.c0.m14#ebayphotohosting
"1986 - 1991 VW Vanagon 2.1L Engine Rebuilt (Long Block) Has all new
bearings, rings and valve job - This engine is completely resealed
with all new head gaskets and crank seals... Built in our shop, these
engines also comes with all installation gaskets to complete the
installations into your vanagon... Comes with flywheel or flex plate
- Specify whether you have an automatic or stickshift...
This engine also fits 83-85 Vanagon waterboxers with a small
modification to the center intake manifold plenum (ask for product
circular)... Comes with a 12mo/12,000mile warranty, technical
bulitens for start-up and break-in as well as selection of motor oils
for long life and reliability...
Shipping Flat Rate $190.00 to any major city trucking terminal in the
Continental USA - For Home delivery or Liftgate truck service add
$96.00"
Need some help trying to figure out what I should I, finances are
tight. I want to move to California and drive my van there.
Much appreciated all the ideas that you send my way.
Thanks,
Robert
NY
