I pulled the plugs and did a compression check.  120 -130 psi
semiwarm.  Plugs looked brown, no soot. Don't think they've been
changed in a while.  Reset the timing and she run smoother.  I
noticed that this one has points.  I thought all Vanagons were
electronic but looking at Bentley I see that early air cooled Fed s
were not.

  I suspect that I have a weak lifter but will pull them when I pull
the engine train and inspect.  Tempted to put back in solids.  A
little adjusting is easier than replacing bad lifters, plus I think
you get better power and longevity with solids.

  I think I know why it was leaking slightly thru the rear seal.  When
I popped the valve covers a quart of oil leaked out.  The PO must
have overfilled the oil.  I'll replace the rear seal anyway.

Need to find a good source for a rebuilt tranny.  Please let me know
if you have a lead.  Going to pull the drive train tomorrow and would
like to get this thing buttoned back up by next week and on the road.

Thanks for your help

--
Steve Blackham
Centerville, Utah

77 transporter converted to camper (Westy top)
83 Vanagon  (New and current project)
87 Weekender