David,

Go local if possible.  It will help greatly is you have any warranty issues.

BTW:  I believe the Bus Depot $1800 engine is rebuilt by AVP
(http://www.avpworldwide.com/).  It might save you on shipping to buy direct
if you're a west coaster.

Cheers,

Jeff
www.vanagonparts.com

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM]On Behalf
Of David Shepherdson
Sent: Thursday, July 29, 2004 9:38 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Source for rebuilt 2.1lt engines?

I need a new engine for my 1990 Westfalia and would like advice on where
to get one.  GEX are among the cheapest but I have heard more than
enough about their lack of reliability so that is not an option.  Bus
Depot sell two engines, a rebuilt (not sure who by) for about $1800 and
"vw factory" rebuilt engine for about $2300.  Go Westy and Boston Engine
Exchange both offer a variety of engines starting at about $2500 with
performance upgrades available.  Does anyone have any advice about:
1. Reliability of these or engines from another source?
2. The reliability and effectiveness of the "performance upgrade"
engines (larger pistons, custom camshaft grinding,  porting etc. etc.).
I also need a new transmission so advice on a source for that would be
appreciated also.
Many Thanks,
David