Sorry if I sounded "snide/negative" Bryan.
It was probably too late for me to express myself without coming across that way. I'll think twice next time about what it might sound like to someone on the other end. My concern was apparently just what you have said in a round-about way: that the engine would likely last a lot longer if it had been cared for the way the rest of the van apparently has been.
Again, sorry for sounding like a d---head.
Bob
  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: ALOHADREAM@aol.com<mailto:ALOHADREAM@aol.com> 
  To: mtbiker62@hotmail.com<mailto:mtbiker62@hotmail.com> 
  Sent: Sunday, April 04, 2004 7:37 AM
  Subject: Immaculate 1991 Westfalia Full camper Vanagon-Response from the owner

  Hey Bob,

  I own this Westy that you were so quick to be negative on. The reason it got a new motor is during a long road trip something (probably a rock) pierced the oil filter and the motor was replaced by the previous owner with a motor from ATK engines (www.atkengines.com<http://www.atkengines.com/>). He said the original motor was in perfect condition up until this happened. I have now owned the van for 3 years putting about 3000 miles on it.

  Maybe you should have contacted me before making the snide remark on the Vanagon newsgroup.

  And yes, the van is immaculate. 

  Sincerely,

  Bryan Jones