Matthew Libby & Denise DeWolfe wrote:
>
> Can I drive the van 30+ miles to a mechanic without doing further
> damage?
>
Well, if you have been following the list you know what happened to me
when I pushed my engine too far!  Chances are you can drive VERY slowly
for the 30 miles without catastrophic failure, and this engine will most
likely need a complete rebuild anyway.  Disconnect the fuel injector
wiring connector on #3 so gas won't be shot into the failed cylinder. If
the power is as low as you say the other cylinders are probably in
pretty poor shape too, number three runs the hottest and is usually just
the first in line to go.

You do run the risk of throwing a rod however, and not having an engine
to rebuild.

A better idea is to join AAA Plus and have them tow it for free!  Choose
your mechanic carefully and be prepared to fix it right, half a***d
repairs won't last on these air cooled engines, they work much too hard
in the heavy Vanagon campers and everything has to be perfect for a
reasonable service life, as you can see.  If you need a complete rebuild
I would recommend an engine from a production rebuilder, such as are on
the list, rather than having a local mechanic do the rebuild.  Line
mechanics, especially those in independent shops, just don't have the
facilities or time to give this task proper attention.  Just have them
do the removal and installation, making sure all the cooling sheet
metal, etc. is installed and working properly.

Keep in mind that if you like the camper and use it, it will be worth
putting a new, reliable engine in it!  If you are in doubt, sell it as
is and move on.

--
Stuart MacMillan
Seattle

'84 Vanagon Westfalia
'65 MGB (Driven since 1969)
'74 MGB GT (Restoring)

Assisting on Restoration:
'72 MGB GT (Daughter's)
'64 MGB (Son's)

Parts cars:
'68 & '73 MGB, '67 MGB GT