Volks,
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Since my original thread was friendly hijacked toward Tiico conversions, I'll try again...
�
Can�anyone comment on how you like�your GoWesty2.3?
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I've got a 1985 1.9L� 4 speed manual with 165,000 gently driven miles.� Original everything, engine wise.� All is fine so far, but alway yearning for more power.��The�simplest (only?) options in California are a 2.2 Subie (mucho dollars,�and who knows what else) or improved perfomance wasserboxers like where GoWesty has gone.� Zetec is not an option here, unless those guys can get it Californa Approved, and that sounds unlikely.
�
How do you like it?� Did you have them install, or did you have a local mechanic or yourself do the work?� What about fuel?...do you use 87 or 89 or 91 octcane?� What did the whole shebang cost?� Why the 2.3 and not the 2.4? 
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I don't have the skills or tools or garage space or time or desire to get in over my head by attempting to do the work myself; I'd afraid I'd just end up with a "basket case", ending up in way more frustration and money than I want to get in to.� Got to leave it to the pros.
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The big issue in California is smog testing.� Getting more rigorous every year, and expensive, too.� (Cost $72 for everything, but the guy said they are going to start testing diesels next year, meaning new equipment, meaning that cost gets passed on to everyone.)� �I just tested and passed a week ago; so good for 2 more years.� But I prepared in advance with some needed stuff like the fuel tank venting rework (tired of the stains on the paint�outside the gas cap), a new catalytic converter (was starting to "rattle")�and muffler (since cat chunks were probably inside), new O2 sensor (the 30,000 mile light came on).� Yes, passed with flying colors, in fact they were better than 2 years ago, probably mostly because of the new cat.
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I'm sure there are a lot of folks here in Southern California that are going to need to make a decision on engines in the next few years or sooner, so your input will be well received.
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By the way....any experience on GoWesty engines in general would be helpful; but since I've only got a 1.9, my options are somewhat limited due to the core charge.
�
Rich
'85 Vanagon GL
San Diego

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