Date:         Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:05:37 -0700
Reply-To:     Jim Cochran <mxsailor@GMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Jim Cochran <mxsailor@GMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Dead and dying WBX- What's a Subie transplant cost?
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My 86 Westy started losing power and blowing and dripping oil on the
way back home from southern Mexico. I was able to get it to San Blas
(of Longfellow's poem, "The Bells of San Blas) and an RV park there
where I regasketed the oil pump plate and checked compression #1- 120
#2- 90 #3- 120 #4- 90. No oil in water or water in oil. I was able to
drive it up to Acoponeta (about 100 miles) by stopping and adding oil
every 20 miles or so... then had it towed to Mazatlan (another 100
miles) where it was parked with friends. Took a bus back to my home in
San Carlos (500 miles north).

Now I have a new oil pump cover plate (whoever rebuilt this motor did
not replace the scored plate, as required in big green book, but
rotated old one 90 degrees), gasket and sealing nuts. Also new gasket
set for engine from Bus Depot. My plan is to drive 2nd car to Mazatlan
with wife, get Westy to RV Park on beach in Mazatlan, pitch 13x9 foot
cabin tent and replace the gaskets. Hopefully, the van will then be
able to make the 500 mile trip on its own.

But I'm through with WBXrs. This motor had less than 4,000 miles on
it, after replacing both head gaskets 500 miles after buying it....
any thoughts on current condition and Subie swap would be welcome.

Jim Cochran

"and I thought sailboats were a PITA...."