Andrew,
I have never heard of anyone doing a conversion for less than just
replacing the waterboxer with a rebuilt one.  I know there have been
many people who thought they were going to get by cheaper but after all
was said and done it is always more expensive.  And it only makes sense
that it is.  If you replace the waterboxer with a rebuilt one there may
be many parts (exhaust, coolant system, etc.) that you may be able to
reuse.  If you are putting a subaru in you are looking at a new exhaust
system, new coolant system, new clutch, etc.  It is just the name of the
game.  A nice, low mileage subaru engine is not something that you can
find under any rock.  If you do find one, usually people will want some
money for it.

My point is if you want to go the cheapest route go with stock.  If you
want to do a Subaru conversion then do that but don't expect it to be
cheaper.

Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com

Richards, Andrew wrote:
> My vanagon is nearing a crossroads in its life.  With 160K on the
> original engine and transmission, I'm starting to think hard about its
> future.  Its body is pretty darn straight, but seam rust is creeping
> along and a body shop just quoted me $1500 to fix all the rust
> (windshield too) and parking lot dents.
>
>
>
> What should come first?  Body or mechanical issues?  I've always
> understood it's best to attack rust ASAP because it'll only get more
> expensive to fix.  On the other hand, dropping a large chunk of $$$ into
> body work on a van who's guts are getting on in years may be futile for
> a guy who's pockets aren't that deep.  What would you do?  I'm also
> considering a do-it-yourself Subaru conversion, which could save me 1-2K
> compared to a pro WBX rebuild.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
>
> Andrew
>
> '87 GL
>
> Portland, OR
>
>