From what I remember - the real issue was about the stretch bolts used
on the rod ends in the original 2.1L WBX engines. In time, they allowed
the rod end bearing to loosen, resulting in oil pressure loss and a
resulting seizing of the rod on the crank, breaking the rod and throwing
the broken rod through the case. Replacing the bolts with the 1.9L rod
bolts at overhaul resolves the problem. That's just what I recall from
various readings. I got the impression from Dennis' comment there may be
something more that is involved. Just dunno.

John

John Rodgers
Clayartist and Moldmaker
88'GL VW Bus Driver
Chelsea, AL
Http://www.moldhaus.com

On 2/10/2011 7:06 AM, VWBrain@aol.com wrote:
> In a message dated 2/10/2011 1:17:58 A.M. Eastern Standard Time,
> inua@CHARTER.NET writes:
>
>     So are you saying the 2.1L WBX is more prone to a rod through the
>     block than a 1.9L engine is?
>
>     John
>
> Hey John  IIRC Boston Bob always used the 1.9L rods in his motors ,  I
> am thinking he thought they were stronger which is good enough reason
> for me  later  mark d