Why did VW switch to stretch bolts?  Is there an advantage, or are they just
cheaper?

----- Original Message -----
From: Chris Stann <ChrisS@INFORMS.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Sunday, April 28, 2002 12:00 AM
Subject: Re: 1.9L exhaust system comments

> > Here is my question about this: I have seen dozens of broken VW cases
> where
> > the rod/piston, whatever fails and explodes through the side of the
block.
> > Why? What failed? Did the crankshaft flex? Did an oil galley fail and a
> part
> > seized? Did something get too hot? What could prevent this in hindsight?
>
> Isn't this phenomena more common in the 2.1L WBX where the stretch rod
bolts
> loosen?  The 1.9 WBX uses a different type of rod bolt, hence lessening
the
> chance of this type of failure.
>
> Chris.