Date:         Wed, 29 Dec 1999 02:25:31 EST
Reply-To:     Wolfvan88@AOL.COM
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Robert Lilley <Wolfvan88@AOL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Performance Upgrades?
Comments: To: Nhvanagon85@aol.com
Comments: cc: vanagon@vanagon.com
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="us-ascii"

Jason,
I would start with:

Quad tip platinum plugs
Synthetic oil (Redline each quart is @$8x5=$40...BUT last @10K to 12K miles-
same as 3 regular oil changes)
New cap /Rotor wires (If needed)
ALL FI parts working OK
Keep stock system-change muffler to free'er flowing.
I used a Super Turbo muffler 6" round 18" length with a Monza single tip
resonator
Muffler = @$60. Monza single tip = $30, 1- 45 degree 2" D x 8" length @$5
Fits in stock location with stock brackets (If yours are good use longer
bolts for strap, I made a new strap out of muffler hanger strap, mine were
rusty)

The exhaust noise has not increased, but now sounds like a GTI exhaust.

Then add a K&N filter that drops into the stock housing.

All these are external items, IF you KNOW that your valve guides are in good
condition, you can add ratio rockers (I would not exceed the 1.25 rocker lift
If you plan to later change the cam to a higher lift)

I would also "bullet proof" the valve train- to prevent failures

Solid rocker shafts
Rhino 1.25 ratio rockers
Rhino swivel valve adjusting feet
Cromoly cut to fit push rods
Clip on aluminum valve covers

I would add a new oil pump that has been blue printed to increase the oil
volume and low speed pressure.




If you split the case then you can go to 2.1L with a counterweighted crank,
spin balance ALL parts including pulley and new pressure plate, rebuild rods,
port heads slightly, 3 angle valve job, match port heads, air runners and
exhaust.

Add a .457 five speed tranny...

Lowered heavy duty springs
I would go with a set of stock 88 and up VW STOCK 1.5" lowered springs.  You
can go to H&R springs but they are lower than the VW LOWERED springs by @1"
and can be stiff.  With the extra weight of the camper gear, they will bottom
out on rough roads wit the H&R (AS told by a fellow list member, I have them
on my 88 Wolfsburg Ed. and while a little stiffer, I like the feeling of
being in control going around curves)

Front and rear heavy duty sway bars
15" rims W/ lower profile tires


"Speed costs MONEY, How fast do you want to go?"

Robert