Larry, I'm glad the Double-cab is working out great for you! But, in all
fairness, we must view the conversion decision in regards to the following
points, for the DIYer:

The Tiico conversion is totally bolt-in, no fabricating of parts or wiring,
sorting out issues such as coolant lines, throttle cables, properly designed
exhaust, muffler brackets, etc, etc. The KEP Subaru conversion, on the other
hand, includes very little in the way of completeness, supplying only the
basics (some of which IMPO could be better made), and could drive the DIYer
mad with the time involved to sort out and chase down all the needed parts
and fabricating the bits KEP doesn't supply. Consider also that the Tiico
kit comes with a BRAND-NEW 0-mile engine. A Subaru with 0 miles would set
you back 'probably' $1500~2000 for the engine alone. The Tiico kit could be
together and running in less that two days, Subaru??? Not a chance. Plus no
clearance issues, fits perfectly as a 'factory' conversion should. I will be
installing one in the next few weeks in a listmember's Syncro. I'll keep the
list updated on what I think of the Tiico kit totally then. I understand it
will be 50-state legal soon.

Karl Mullendore
Westy Ventures
1987 Syncro Westfalia 1.9TD

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

> "Kintz, Roger" wrote:
>
> > I've heard great reports on former GTI conversions.  Are the Suburu and
> > TIICO conversions not allowed by referees in Calif?
>
> The KEP Subaru conversion is Calif. ok'd. I don't know if the TiiCo is.
>
> > How does a conversion
> > affect the value of a Vanagon?
>
> It increases the driving pleasure factor to the point where my wife now
wants to
> drive.
>
> > What are the negatives about conversions?
>
> If you put a Subaru engine in, you won't have nearly as much interest in
the
> Vanagon List discussions of FI, ISR, Digifant, etc.
>
> > I thought they increase performance and value?
>
> Its cheaper than the VW WBX repair by a factor of 3. The fuel economy is
better
> by at least 10%.
>
> -Larry
> '86 Syncro Westfalia with VW WBX 2.1 L
> '86 Syncro Doublecab with Subaru WBX 2.2 L