Date: Mon, 27 Dec 2021 16:34:39 -0500
Reply-To: Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Eric Caron <ericcaron96@COMCAST.NET>
Subject: Re: Wallaced...and the next 20 years
In-Reply-To: <2076220590.1008565.1640638510436@mail.yahoo.com>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=utf-8
Ouch!
I’m running a GW 2.3 just broken in at about 3,000 miles. Very happy so far with everything about it. I’m totally good with conversions. If I had not gone this route I likely would have gone with the FAS new Jetta conversion. But, I enjoy the way this vanagon engine is running and I like keeping it somewhat original.
However, after I’ve put on 150 K miles I may be considering a conversion but likely then it will be to electric.
Eric Caron
85 GL 2.3
> On Dec 27, 2021, at 3:55 PM, Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET> wrote:
>
> Lots of good reviews about Bostig conversion. And of course Subie conversions (am extremely satisfied with mine at 60K miles). They made a LOT of both of those motors; abundant parts and knowledgeable mechanics. Vanagon motors...not so much...unfortunately.
>
> On Sunday, December 26, 2021, 06:07:42 PM PST, rowan@dragonhome.org <rowan@dragonhome.org> wrote:
>
>
> Quoting Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@sbcglobal.net>:
> Richard,
>
> My wife and I are 77 and 79. We bought a new Promaster in 2017. Last
> year I bought an '89 Syncro tintop. I like it much better than the
> Promaster. Easier and more fun to drive, fits in smaller parking
> places, is more like camping and less like RVing. This winter it
> will get a Bostig conversion for dependable driving.
>
> r
>
> Rowan Tipton
> Knoxville, TN
>
>> I've been a VW Van owner since 1974 ('70 Bus). Upgraded to 1985
>> Vanagon in '89. Always have loved the platform size...fits nicely
>> into my garage, and of course everywhere else. Yes, am old enough
>> to have enjoyed the Wallaced Experience!
>>
>> Here's the thing: I've been noticing that many shops are closing.
>> Many sources are starting to dry up. Mechanics that know what they
>> are doing are retiring. With that in mind....I have been diligently
>> keeping my Vanagon totally up to snuff as best I can. New Subie
>> motor, new transmission, new coolant system and associated
>> components involved in engine swap....getting ready for new front
>> suspension stuff and brakes on all 4 wheels. Actually, those are
>> the last two areas that need attention.... I'd be ready at a
>> moment's notice to travel anywhere in the lower 48 tomorrow.
>> I'm 68. In 20 years I'll be 88. It will be time to let the Vanagon
>> go to some younger buck....assuming any interest.
>>
>> Yes...I've looked into the Sprinter/Transit/Ram platforms and am
>> handy enough to turn any of these into a superb camper van....OK I
>> guess...but won't fit into my garage. The money is no object.
>> Wondering if you guys, especially the elders like me, are having
>> similar thoughts and concerns? How to keep Vanagon reliable and
>> strong, no matter where I travel in the USA?
>
>
>
>
