There is no reason that the A"rebuilt" enigne should reqiure a valve
adjustment. That is what hydraulic lifters are all about. Frequnet oil
changes are a good idea to get any rebuild dirt and debris out. Since you
will be doing a lot of highway driving, high viscosity oil and proper oil
level is critical. Proper oil level is not at the upper mark. Mid way is the
goal.

Keep in mind that whatever cuased the last engine to fail may still be
lurikng. Keep your eyes and ears open for anything unusual. Do not lug the
engine and it will be happy.

Take your time and enjoy the trip. Try to hit as many National parks as
possible. The journey can become addictive.

Dennis

>From: Tam Woodrum <twoodrum@MAC.COM>
>Reply-To: Tam Woodrum <twoodrum@MAC.COM>
>To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>Subject: Newbie - Getting Ready for Cross Country Trip
>Date: Thu, 3 Apr 2008 20:42:33 -0400
>
>Hi everyone,
>
>I'll officially be a westfalia vanagon (1990) owner on April 14th.  I
>am picking it up from Pop Top Heaven in Yucaipa CA and driving it back
>across the country (I live in CT) on a "rolling meditation" camping
>vacation.
>
>Since I'll have a newly rebuilt engine, I'm going to need to stop
>along the way for a valve adjustment/oil change.  I'm keeping my
>fingers crossed on landing somewhere along the way where there's a
>good vanagon mechanic willing to do a quick turnaround.
>
>I've found roadhaus.com but would like other ideas about how to find
>good mechanics (and good samaritans) along the way.
>
>I'm bringing my Mac and have a Verizon wireless broadband card so I'll
>have web access.  I'm going to do an online travelog with pics so stay
>tuned!
>
>Also, if any of you have suggested scenic routes to take on the way
>back, drop me a line!
>
>Kind regards,
>
>Tam
>
>1990 Westfalia - name tbd (considering "Phaedrus")