Chris,

If you are planning to keep the Westy for a long time, I would recommend
looking at the Tiico in line 4 conversion.  I put a Boston Bob rebuild in my
91 and am very pleased with his work.  I do have sticking lifters now and
again after about 35,000 miles on the engine.  My reasons for recommending
the in line 4 are:

            Engine from Bob
$2050 + shipping
            Complete stainless exhaust
1000
            new water pump, thermostat housing,
            water distribution piece, coolant tank,
            new hoses, sending units, motor mounts etc.         500  at
least - probably more

Then, in the first year, a leaky water pump, a failed AFM, a leaky oil
cooler, and maybe a few other minor problems.  I ended up with more than the
price of a Tiico conversion and if I keep driving at the same rate, I will
have to start all over again in about 3 - 4 years.  The above costs do not
include any labor.  I guess I have had my fill of 2.1 water boxers.  I
believe the 1.9's are a bit better though.

Walt Spak
Pittsburgh, PA.
wnsopc3@3rdm.net
----- Original Message -----
From: Chris Paquette <cp@IX.NETCOM.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, October 15, 2001 12:57 PM
Subject: '88 Westy: Shopping for New Engine - Options?

> Automatic transmission, 2.1 liter 1988 Westy.
>
> I need a new engine. I've seen many recommendations for Boston Bob
> (www.bostonengine.com), as well as a couple of warnings _against_ getting
a
> GEX motor.
>
> What are my options beyond this, if any? Looking for recommendations on
> which way to go with this decision.
>
> If you were in my place, where would you get your replacement from, and
why?
> My goal is to get together with my mechanic and tell him which engine I
> want, and why.
>
> Chris
> Los Angeles
> Crippled '88 Westy, "Rocinante"