Date: 2 Dec 1995 07:52:35 GMT
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From: CXNA40B@prodigy.com (Carolyn Ulmer)
Subject: Re: help! vanagon engine rebuild
I've pulled the heads recently on my 90 Vanagon because the water seals
had deteriorated to the point of leakage. These are rubber-like seals
that fit between the heads and the water jackets surrounding the
cylinders. The cylinder barrels actually slip into the heads and are
sealed by o-rings to keep the water out and the compression in.
The job of replacement of the o-rings and seals can be done with the
engine left in the car after removing the intake and exhaust systems,
hoses, and various pieces of sheet metal from around the engine.
Basically, it is fairly straight forward if you have the manual to follow
and some experience [ I did it first on my 84 Vanagon several years ago].
The problem with the water seals deteriorating is supposedly due to the
breakdown of the anti-freeze protection allowing corrosion of the seals
and metal where the cylinder head meets the seal, i.e. around the edges
of the head. The surface becomes pitted to varying degrees depending on
how long the corrosion has taken place. If it's not too bad the heads
can be resurfaced and re-used. If it is bad then they must be replaced
because they will leak.
In my case I cleaned up the affected areas and installed the new seals
and o-rings, using an ample supply of appropriate sealant on the surfaces
contacting the seals, then bolted it all back together. I also cleaned
up the valves and seats while I was at it.
The total cost to me was about $250 for the engine gasket set--actually I
only needed 2 head gasket sets. Could have save about $50. If a dealer
do the job for you be prepared for major bucks -- $1100 I was quoted, and
that was assuming my heads would be re-usable!
Results: Success! No leaks, and the engine runs smoother than ever!
I thought about sending the bill to VW because these cars should NOT have
a problem like this! But I figured they'd never do anything about so I
didn't.
Hope this helps.
Jack.
89 GTI 16v
90 Vanagon GL
[+87 Buick !]