Rich,

Just drive on, and forget about it!  If you do a compression test, what will
you do if it's low (and it will be)?  The death signal is when the oil
pressure light starts coming on or flickering, particularly after a long run
on the freeway.   When that happens it's time for a rebuild, or if it get so
gutless a passenger has to help you push it up hills.

My '84 went over 200,000 miles and was running strong, but I replaced it
with a used 2.1 just for the fun of it years ago.   Bad idea.  I blew that
one up (http://volksweb.relitech.com/21rodbrg.htm) and I don't have that rig
anymore.

Stuart
'85 Westy

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Richard Koerner
Sent: Monday, May 07, 2012 3:45 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Best way to judge life left in Waterboxer?

The 1.9 engine in my 85 manual Vanagon has 198,000 miles.� Never been opened
for any reason.� Runs smooth as silk.� Gentle driving, burns no oil, always
passes smog, power seems about the same as always.� Wondering how long this
thing can last?� What's the best way to get some idea, compression test?� 

Rich
San Diego