Date: Thu, 1 Oct 2020 10:30:53 -0700
Reply-To: Neil N <musomuso@GMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Neil N <musomuso@GMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Need new Engine
In-Reply-To: <MWHPR16MB15032DA8D9D48E7E247119F7DF300@MWHPR16MB1503.namprd16.prod.outlook.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="UTF-8"
What is the cause of compression loss?
If possible, get an engine oil pressure test done now. If that turns out ok....
If you know the maintenance history of the engine, if the bottom end
is original and engine was well maintained, engine should be useable
for some miles with just a head replacement. If the other head has not
been replaced, depending on cause of current compression loss, it
might be wise to do both heads now. i.e. if head on question dropped a
valve seat, how many more miles 'til the other head does same? Also
consider condition of exhaust pipes.
As mentioned, all depends on your needs, budget etc.
I've done an air to water cooled conversion. While the work required
to install the water cooled parts is not as extensive as one might
suggest (added parts basically "bolt up), in terms of major parts
cost, figure in:
- new heater core
- 1.25" diameter stainless steel long coolant pipes
- used heat exchanger box at dash (would likely need a "re-seal")
- radiator
- quality heater hose
- heater hoses to heater core
I'd guesstimate the cost for just those parts at ~ $ 1000 USD min.
Installing a properly rebuilt WBX might be an option and would
certainly cost much less than a non oe engine. e.g. no adaptor plate
required to mate WBX to air cooled transmission.
As for a rebuilt air cooled, be careful. GEX has a bad rep and AVP can
be a mixed bag.
Neil.
On 9/30/20, Randy C <rcicoryell@msn.com> wrote:
> I'd love to get some feedback on thoughts regarding my need for an engine.
> 82 Air cooled, Approx 175,000 miles on engine. No compression in Cylinder
> 1. Need new cylinder head. #1 I'm not really mechanically inclined. My
> mechanic gave me a quote to fix what I have for about $1,400 (including
> products). Bus depot has a air cooled for around $2,500. Probably a grand
> to have my mechanic through it in. I know lots go to a water cooled maybe
> Subaru conversion. Anybody have thoughts on the price of a water
> conversion? I love my van and would like to keep it. Any thoughts on a
> wise direction to go?
>
> Thanks for any help!
>
> Randy
>
--
Neil n
VE7TBN
1988 Westy 50º ABA swap: https://tinyurl.com/yap5hpwt
1981 Westy 15º ABA swap: https://tinyurl.com/y9n4xob8
VAG Gas Engine Swap Group <http://tinyurl.com/khalbay>
