Where are you in NY, NYC or upstate. I am in VT and we have an excellent
mechanic near the NY border that may have a line on a solid engine. The
garage is called Fast Addiction in Castleton. They are very talented and
honest.
----- Original Message -----
From: "Robert Stewart" <robertmstewart@MAC.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, August 19, 2008 4:24 PM
Subject: Engine Replacement or Gasket Fix?

> So I just found out that 88 Vanagon has a blown head gasket just
> between Cylinder 1 & 2 I was told by my mechanic. I nice little chunk
> is missing he says. That is where my coolant leak is coming from he
> says.
>
> So I just lost my job, position was extinguished. I have a couple of
> months severance and unemployment but I am on a tight budget. I was
> planning on leaving for a California cross country journey in 2 months.
>
> The van seems to run fine other than adding some coolant every time
> the van sits overnight. Anytime the van is not moving the coolant
> seems to be slowly dripping out.
>
> So what kind of costs am I looking at for the costs of replacing a
> gasket? I assume that I would have both sides done at the same time.
>
> or if the cost to high, and is the same as putting in a new engine..
> who's engine under a budget?
>
> My mechanic told me its between $1,000 - $1,200 for the removal &
> installation of the engine. How much should this be?
>
> Options:
>
> I saw this guy oin Ebay "jake4parts" - he has gotten some all lot of
> good feedback. Anyone know if this guy? His engine is only $975
>
> http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1986-1991-VW-Vanagon-Rebuilt-2-1L-Engine-Long-Block_W0QQitemZ320284970269QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item320284970269&_trkparms=39%3A1%7C65%3A1%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245
>
> "1986 - 1991 VW Vanagon 2.1L Engine Rebuilt (Long Block)  Has all new
> bearings, rings and valve job - This engine is completely resealed
> with all new head gaskets and crank seals...  Built in our shop, these
> engines also comes with all installation gaskets to complete the
> installations into your vanagon...  Comes with flywheel or flex plate
> - Specify whether you have an automatic or stickshift...
>
> This engine also fits 83-85 Vanagon waterboxers with a small
> modification to the center intake manifold plenum (ask for product
> circular)...  Comes with a 12mo/12,000mile warranty, technical
> bulitens for start-up and break-in as well as selection of motor oils
> for long life and reliability...
>
> Shipping Flat Rate $190.00 to any major city trucking terminal in the
> Continental USA - For Home delivery or Liftgate truck service add
> $96.00"
>
> $975 engine
>
> $190 shipping
>
> Total $1165
>
>
>
> Boston Bob (Of Course)
>
> 2.1 Stock Valve Upgrade
>
> Upgrade: $2725 + $600 core
>
> Plus Shipping
>
> Total $3325 Plus Shipping costs
>
>
>
> Go Westy - Their engine costs are insane so forget that.
>
> Subi  - out of my range.
>
> I have local wreckers that salvage the engines out of cars that have
> been in rear end collisions, they have engines from Jetta for $500 he
> could sell me but I have idea on the condition of the engine.
>
>
>
> Anyone have any other ideas?
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
> Robert
>
> NY