Date:         Sat, 9 Nov 2019 23:51:28 +0000
Reply-To:     Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET>
Subject:      Re: horse power
Comments: To: Dan N <dn92610@GMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <CAFdLW6=2CS14ZUHNvvBz+ofG4jTT-qzAicYWMOuJGTKE35TUeg@mail.gmail.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8

 Of course, South Africa improved the motors in the Vanagon....like with that 5-cylinder Audi motor.  Did they also improve the tranny?  I am not knowledgeable about it all.  (I did some internet reading, apparently there was a 5-speed transmission developed at some point.)  If tranny was basically the same with motor enlargement, there is some argument that modest increase in HP and torque is acceptable.

For me, with a Subie 2.2 with 135 HP as compared with the 83 HP in my old 1.9 motor, I am extremely happy.  I drive it just the same.  Except, for those special occasions (on-ramps, grades, and so forth).  More modern motor electronics; more balancing in motor; better fuel economy (22.1 MPG average on trips).  My old 1.9 was going strong at 220,000 miles, and I expect my Subie 2.2 should go to at least 300,000 miles.  With gentle driving as I do.
Who knows about CV joints and all that stuff?  I used the expensive Lobro ones (and Rockford boots) as opposed to the cheap Chinese versions.  I mostly aim for extreme reliability as most of my driving is far away from home.
Have to add though...the Subie 2.2 is WAY more fun to drive!!!  And it looks so clean in the motor compartment, not a bunch of all kinds of things running this way and that.  But, to be honest, at 285,000 miles, rebuild on the tranny is in my sights.  Also, things like CV joints and tranny problems start giving warning moans before they fail....so I feel safe either to get home or to a reliable shop, as opposed to the flatbed ride of shame.

Rich
San Diego

    On Saturday, November 9, 2019, 8:42:10 AM PST, Dan N <dn92610@gmail.com> wrote:  
 
 hi all,

there are many talks regarding horse power for a vanagon and there are
different opinions out there and none conclusive... and since I am in the
process of choosing an engine for my van, could anyone educate me on this
question...

- what's a safe upper margin amount of horse power for a vanagon NOT
detrimental to the transaxle.

thanks in advance

dan