buy an engine and put it in yourself, you can do it's very intimidating initally but you'll figure it out and you will all that wiser for undertaking the project....

David Maurio <maurio11@COMCAST.NET> wrote:
Original Engine, 215k, heads were replaced in 96, don't think it's ever been
rebuilt.

Head replacement is going to set me back what? $1200 or so on the east
coast? Rebuilt installed around 3-4k? Body of the van has no rust (came
from TX &
CA) except for a little bit of seam rust and 2 "bubbles" under the
windshield, the body panel below and to the rear (before the passenger rear
wheel well) needs to be replaced, both bumpers need to be replaced, rear
heater & air conditioner don't work, needs new brake shoes, and the skylight
leaks... I can do most of the work except for the engine
rebuild/replacement... I paid $2900 for her, and don't mind spending
another 3-5 over time to get her running reliable and well, as well as
regular maint expenses... just wondering at what point to give up the ghost
and try with another van...

--
David /NJ
85 Wolfsburg Westy "Beatrix"
> > He also recommended getting a brand new rebuild with new heads
> > instead of going the "reseal" route... now my heads were replaced in
> > 96... I want to get a second opinion!
>
> How old is the engine? How many miles? Ever been rebuilt? You have
> to calculate whether it's worth sinking the cost of head replacement
> into an engine which itself might need to be replaced shortly.
>
> Best,
> d.
> 1990 GL -- "Mudskipper"
>