Michael
I thought of a couple of possilbitys they include
old gas 6 months or older
the fuel pressure needs to be checked at idle and at 2000 RPM to see if it
can deliver the volume and maintain pressure
injectors can have a descent spray pattern but the volume can be low.
Bentley as I recall says a minimum of 87 CC's in 30 seconds this is often
overlooked. I have seen injecters spray 1/2 of that volume
 Start with #1
this would also make the cylinder run lean enough melt a piston.

Bob Donalds
Boston Engine

----- Original Message -----
From: "Michael Diehr" <md03@XOCHI.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, March 06, 2006 6:17 PM
Subject: Re: Knock & Ping?

> On Mar 3, 2006, at 11:43 PM, Michael Diehr wrote:
>
>> 1. Running a mix of 89 & 91 octane gas
>> 2. it IS a 1.9 block that was rebuilt to 2.1
>> 3. the previous engine did have a problem with the #1 cylinder
>> destructing.
>
> On further thought, I have no idea what I have in the van.
>
> My 1.9 died, and I took it to a local mechanic who offered a 1.9
> rebuild, or for $200 more a 2.1.   I chose the 2.1.   So I'm not
> actually sure what it is -- a 2.1 long block?  Or a 1.9 that's been
> bored or stroked or...I suppose I could call the mechanic and ask,
> but it's probably more fun to let the wild speculation go unchecked :)
>
> In any case, it's almost time for the 500 mile checkup, so when I do
> I'll ask them to check for timing problems, and ask them to remove
> the piston slappers :)
>