I'd add good oil pressure to that list, and look for even compression
readings too.

Doug

>If I had a mechanic who told me that compression wasn't worth knowing, I
>would quickly find another mechanic. This is probably the easiest test as to
>general engine condition. If you have an engine that uses no oil, and has no
>coolant leaks ( look very carefully) and the compression runs within spec,
>than you have little to worry about. There are many of these vehicles with
>more than 200K that are running just fine, but just as many with a lot  less
>than yours that are pretty sick. Check that compression. Anything over 120
>is fine.
>Chuck
>'83 Westy
>----- Original Message -----
>From: "David Boan" <dboan@BLUECRAB.ORG>
>To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
>Sent: Monday, August 04, 2003 2:30 PM
>Subject: How many miles are too many?
>
>
>> I have an '85 Westy with 180,000 miles.  I am trying to decide when I am
>> pushing my luck and should plan on a new engine or rebuild. I am
>considering a
>> long trip next Spring and want to estimate my risks.
>>
>> Most of the miles are short distance, not long trips.  Oil has been
>changed
>> every 3500 miles faithfully.  It does not burn oil.  I do not know the
>> compression and my mechanic doesn't think that is worth knowing.
>>
>> Is there any guidance on 1) what is a reasonable target number of miles
>before
>> replacing/rebuilding? 2) Any ideas on ways of knowing when you are
>seriously
>> pushing your luck with an engine?  I am thinking of going for about
>200,000 -
>> 220,000 and then replacing the engine.  Is that foolish?
>>
>> Thanks
>>
>> Dave Boan
>> Easton, MD
>>
>>
>>
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