At 07:21 AM 06/08/2003, you wrote:
>  Some think $1500 for the engine
>(with 15k on it) is fair...many think it is a high
>price.
>
>The Latest: he will remove it from the wrecked Vanagon
>and install it in mine for $1650 total (he is a
>mechanic with lots of VW experience.)

That's an incredible bargain for his time, unless he's thinking of whipping
it out and down the drive via compromised procedures. If that includes full
drain and refill with spec antifreeze, big danged +. Includes new oil and
filters?? What are you waiting for?? As to whether that engine is worth
$1500, best to not try to put a value on it without FIRST verifying
compression balance and leak down testing. Also, I would never pay that
much for a low mileage rebuilt motor if there was any sign at all of
corrosion on the fittings or surfaces or if I saw the WRONG antifreeze in
it. As to 15K miles, if that's what his invoice when replaced shows as the
mileage, great!! No docs, no value.

>- I get to keep my core

Do a very thorough cleaning of the core both prior to removal and after. Be
very sure the whole block and heads are fully flushed with water and effort
employed to drain both sides. Before removing or tearing down the core you
should verify compression and leak down and check end play.

I documented one Wasserboxer that had a VW Remanufactured block installed
with one gallon of antifreeze billed. They pinched the hoses and subjected
the new motor to foul fluid from the get go. This is what low bid motor
replacements always include, short cuts and compromise. Not the best way to
least cost/mile long term.