Update:

I took a closer look at the 2.1 tonight and did the compression check.
The engine isn't quite as complete as I had imagined.... The exhaust
system exists only as flanges mated to the heads, and one of those is
pretty messed up. It looks like two of the exhaust studs are going to
need professional attention. Luckily there's a good machine shop just a
couple of minutes away. The metal parts of the FI and ignition system
look about average for a 10 YO Ontario van; serviceable, but a long way
from pretty. The best part is that it's ALL there, so I have a pretty
good chance to be able to get it to run on the bench later this winter.

The compression numbers were reasonable: 180 - 180 - 195 - 150. I
suppose I could try wetting the rings on #4 to see if it comes up a bit,
but not tonight. Come the weekend I will pull off the transmission and
see what the clutch looks like.

Happy Trails,

Greg Potts
1973/74/79 Westfakia "Bob the Tomato"
1987 Wolfsburg Weekender Hardtop
www.busesofthecorn.com
www.pottsfamily.ca

Greg Potts wrote:
> Hi Volks,
>
> This weekend I acquired the driveline from a 1987 Westfalia, complete
> from starter motor to axles, from airbox to tailpipe. The vehicle was
> purported to have a mere 95,000 KM on the clock, and the engine is a
> very fresh looking VW of Canada reman. And that's all I know about it.
> The seller I acquired it from had not heard it run.
>
> I expected to swap the transmission, but the engine was not really part
> of the plan. Before I separate it from the transmission I will do a
> compression check; I don't currently have the equipment needed to do a
> leak-down test, but I might be able to borrow some.
>
> With me driving the wolfsburg about 500 miles per week, I am thinking
> that having a fresh 2.1L up my sleeve could be just the ticket. And of
> course my Dad also has two 1985's that might some day need help.
>
> So the question is this: What sort of procedure should I use to evaluate
> the condition of this engine?