In a message dated 98-07-05 20:32:00 EDT, dmc@CYBURBAN.COM writes: > As a prospective purchaser of a VW van I have been reading about this > problem. I must admit this has almost made me cross VW off my shortlist. I don't think the problem is large enough to cross off the Vanagon. > Does this problem only apply to Vanagons or also to the Eurovan? Just watercooled Vanagons with "waterboxer" engines from 83 to 91. Eurovans use a completely unrelated engine. > How would a prospective purchaser check for this problem? Look for leaks or evidence of leaks (like whitish/greenish/bluish residue) on the bottom side of the heads near the gasket. Probably best to ask the seller if this van has had the heads/gaskets replaced yet. If so, find out details. If not, plan on relacing them someday. I think the majority of Vanagons get 70,000 to 140,000 from a pair of heads. I've occasionally heard of it as early as 50,000 miles. I met a guy a few weeks ago with a 1990 that has OVER 300,000 miles on the original engine with NO HEAD LEAKS and no other significant repairs. Good luck, Jim Davis |
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