Date:         Mon, 22 Feb 1999 09:24:42 -0500
Reply-To:     Michael Townsend <townsend@RTP.ERICSSON.SE>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Michael Townsend <townsend@RTP.ERICSSON.SE>
Subject:      WBX replacement
Content-Type: multipart/alternative;

Hi,

I have been following all of the engine swap options, and have just about decided to stick with the Waterboxer for my 90 Carat.  If I want a newly rebuilt motor, I can probably get it done for about $3k, assuming about $800 removal and replacement of the old one, and a new waterpump.  The Eurospec I4 is what I was saving for, but it costs twice as much as the WBX -- no matter how I look at it.  The 5 cyl is $4500 with the rebuilt motor, and I would have to still find the FI system from a donor car, and then pay for the removal and replacement.  The TDI is the most desirable option, but it is too expensive and still too much of a science project.  While I agree that a new I4 or a rebuilt I5 will last more than twice as long as a new WBX, I don't have twice as much money now to make the investment.  I also have no time, no machine shop, no patience, and no mechanical talent.  My present waterdripper is starting to leak more than 1 drop / second while the engine is running, and I don't know how much time I have before it catastophically blows.  If I do get another waterboxer, I promise to change the coolant every 2 years.

Now,  assuming I have to stick with the waterboxer, who is the best source?  What is your opinion of:
GEX (well, I already know the list opinion on this one)
AVP ?$
VW (Trademark, all rights reserved) new engines (not rebuilt)  ?$
Boston Bob $2100

I suppose I could just do the heads, but the D.P.O. did not take care of the engine at all, and it has 130k miles on it and it consumes oil.

Thanks very much,
Michael Townsend
Durham, NC, USA
townsend@rtp.ericsson.se


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