"this van has been for sale a few times on ebay, and it's not far from
here.  http://tinyurl.com/dk9eb (ebay #4600518524).  is the owner a
listmember?"

this is essentially a TIICO motor set up with the 1.8 block, 2.0 head. The
big (read: improvement) difference IMO, is the brackets holding the
alternator (has no A/C) is the A2-3, not the TIICO CHEAPO bracket that seems
to cause so much vibration due to poor alignment. The new 135 hp TIICO now
uses this type bracket and serpentine belt and it is much smoother and
eliminates the old vibe problems.

The solution to the oil burn on hard cornering is correct. I put the windage
tray in mine (some dremeling/filing of its rear for proper fit) is the
solution. My "guess" is there will be no vibration problem with this
particular set up due to that bracket, which you can see in the engine
picture, just below and right of the alternator.

I wonder what kind of mileage on the engine. Whether it was a "new-rebuild"
or just "transplanted parts". I can assure you that whether you do this or
Subie, you'll like the difference in driveability due to the extra 1000 rpm
to redline. Completely changes the way you drive the van.

I'm wondering why it hasn't sold previously?? ;.(  uummmmmmmmmm? It being
close by lets you go take a look/drive and that's huge! You might want to
join the Subie list, if you're not on there, and see if anyone is in your
neighborhood and see if you can go for a ride in that also.

Good shopping ;>)

Bob Stevens
'87 Westy Syncro TIICO
"Passion Fruit"
http://groups.msn.com/BobsPhotoShare/87westysyncro.msnw?Page=1

P.S.: There may not be a better, more fun motor for these than the Subie 2.5
you're thinking of ..... unless it's the H6 3.0!!