Does the engine have the same 190K as the van? If so, I agree with the
approach of replacing the gaskets only and you need to buy some time. Of
course this depends on the health of the rest of the engine.

Normally, the cylinders in these engines never wear out, only the ring
lands and of course valves, guides, bearings, and the cam shafts. Was
the compression-leak down and oil pressure tested before pulling the
heads?

Once you bring the heads to a shop, some money will flow. If the valves
and guides are good, bead blasting or a good cleaning with those
abrasive wheels will do. A product called the "Right Stuff" applied to
the rubber gasket will make a good seal regardless of pitting or even
some corrosion on the case. I have also found that Hylomar makes an
excellent dressing for the o-ring around the cylinder and metal seals
between the cylinder and head. If the heads need any real amount of
work, it is time for new ones.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf
Of Jim Felder
Sent: Saturday, January 08, 2005 3:16 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Question about 2.1 cylinder and head question

A few minutes ago I finished pulling the heads on my 2.1 in
anticipation of installing new head gaskets and fuel hose.

Cylinder question: the car has 190K miles on it, and I noticed I could
feel no lip inside the cylinder... none. Upon closer inspection with a
light, I can still see the crosshatch from the factory. Is this normal?
Unusual?

Head question: I'm not going to do anything to the heads but clean them
up and stick them back on with new gaskets. They are pitted, though,
and I am going the JB weld route. Should I just send the heads to a
shop and have them cleaned? Do it myself? How much should I expect to
pay for just a cleaning? I assume they will have to pull the  springs
and valves.

Thanks,

Jim