Date:         Mon, 6 Apr 2009 13:29:27 -0400
Reply-To:     Robert Stewart <robertmstewart@MAC.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Robert Stewart <robertmstewart@MAC.COM>
Subject:      Engine Rebuild Questions
Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII; format=flowed; delsp=yes

Good Monday to everyone,

I have a local engine rebuilder working on my 2.1 Automatic engine
which had roughly 250,000 miles on it.

He informed my heads needed to be replaced. I could clearly see the
space between the two valves having a indentation bridging them and
the surface areas were very badly pitted.

I planned on purchasing a set of rebuilt heads from Van-Cafe, anyone
think this a good or bad idea?
Anyone used them before? Have any feedback?

Secondly is there anything regarding the rebuild that is a must to
replace component wise since he has it all apart?
i.e. sleeves, pistons, camshaft etc...

I am awaiting a final parts list from him now but want to be sure I am
not missing anything.

Before he rebuilds it he is going to be cleaning all the parts in a
special bath then glass bead blasting the non sensitive parts.

Also how long should a standard rebuild take? i.e. 7-21 days? or is it
something that can be done in a 40 hour work week?
What kind of price should I expect?
He told me it would be roughly $1500 dollars.
He said he would be check to see if the camshaft needed to be reground
and would check all valves etc. His shop only does rebuilds but of
mostly race car engines and big truck engines so I trust he knows what
he is talking about. He is not a VW guy at all he just knows engines.
I did give him the Bentley just to be safe though.

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Robert
NY