Find a used distributor (more like $50~$75), and = replaced the head gaskets when you can afford it, if the engine doesn't have mucho = mileage. IMHO the Vanagon waterboxer is every bit as good as the Subaru, and with = the Subaru you will lose ground clearance, and may have a hard time finding = a mechanic that will want to work on such a beast. If you really want a = better engine, consider either Europec's conversion. Of course there are other conversions out there also.......

Karl

----- Original Message -----

We have an '87 Weekender that's in = great shape ... except for a couple of recent engine developments.

The day before our annual family = vacation, the distributor "blew up" (our mechanic's words). What causes that = to happen? I am told it is a $400+ part and am reluctant to invest = the money in an engine that has begun displaying several signs of head = gasket problems.

Do we replace the distributor for = the moment and try to get by with this engine until next year (when we can better = afford a replacement) or do we go for the engine replacement now? I am considering the Subaru engine swap, but do not know the first thing = about beginning this process. Suggestions?

As we have in the past, we look = forward to the great advice and suggestions from members of the list.

Vern & Heather

Omaha, NE

'87 Weekender

'72 and '73 BMW Bavarias (for sale)