Quoting Michael Diehr <md03@XOCHI.COM>:
 > How do I convince my sig.other that spending $4k to $8k on a engine
> rebuild/fix/swap actually is a good idea.

A couple of ideas:

1)  Start bringing home brochures for Volvo Wagons, Touregs, Cayennes,
Excursions, etc.  Make sure the MSRP is visible on the brochure.

2)  Have someone pen a note (so not in your handwriting) that says, "Wow, nice
van, I'll give you $20,000 for it".  Leave this note under the windshield and
find a way that she discovers it.

Tom Salicos
'87 Syncro Westy EG-33 "Ravenous"