Date:         Mon, 3 Nov 2008 13:33:02 -0500
Reply-To:     greg@POTTSFAMILY.CA
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Greg Potts <greg@POTTSFAMILY.CA>
Subject:      Re: Evaluating a "Found" Engine
Comments: To: Roger Sisler <rogersisler2000@YAHOO.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <vanagon%2008110313074807@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1; DelSp="Yes"; format="flowed"

Hi Roger,

95,000 KM was the alleged mileage on the donor vehicle and  
transmission, not the reman engine. This reman looks EXTREMELY fresh,  
there is no dirt on it and the rubber seals look like new, though it's  
obvious that the FI, alternator  and cooling hoses were from the  
original engine. I wonder if it would be possible to get build info on  
the engine from VW Canada?

I have yet to inspect the exhaust studs or other hardware, but the  
general picture is above average for a salvage engine. I would prefer  
not to tear this down if I can help it, I don't really have the time  
or an appropriate workspace for that kind of project. I'd sooner build  
a jig with a spare radiator and fuel pump and run it on the garage  
floor. I have done that before with aircooled motors, but has anyone  
ever bothered with the WBX?

Suitable subies are not at all common in this market and I have  
already decided on the V2 Zetec kit as my long term goal with this  
vehicle... Is there anyone in Southern Ontario or upstate NY looking  
for a complete low-miles VWoC remanufactured 2.1

Happy Trails,

Greg


Quoting Roger Sisler <rogersisler2000@YAHOO.COM>:

> 95K sounds pretty good, but I had a 1.9 with 62K that had rather advanced
> pitting on the heads. I was getting an occasional drip from the gaskets on
> very cold mornings. A full blown gusher was not too far away.
>
> I suggest that you load your 2.1 up with water and look for dripping on a
> very cold morning.
>
> Dripping or not, expect shot head gaskets. If you want this for a reserve
> engine, best to do the gaskets anyway. Better yet, sell it and get a Subaru
> 2.2 and wiring stuff. Work on a conversion while your current engine is
> expiring.
>