On Mon, May 14, 2012 at 4:37 PM, Jon Durham <jon_durham@knology.net> wrote:

> As best I can tell, to get more horses, there is a 2.1 WB, a 2.2 WB, a
> Subaru, and a Ford engine to replace my 1.9L engine in my 85 Vanagon.
>
> I would like to get opinions on the engines and recommendations as to
> who is good for installing the engines.
>
> Cheers
>
   As mentioned, the inlne VW motors are also an option to be considered.
I am one with the 2.0 ABA (93 Jetta) combined with the 1.8L 8 valve head(92
Jetta/Golf/Rabbit) and I am very pleased with it.   Good fuel economy,
simple to operate, available and inexpensive parts, easy acceptance at
repair shops, etc.  Excellent power, too.

   If you can do the work on your own time, you could likely get it done
for about $1000 including all the parts, if you shopped around and bought
wisely.   There isn't a single source to find everything for this
swap...but it is all out there, the information.   There isn't a kit or a
professional installer you can just call, like Bostig or Small Car or FAS,
etc etc....so it isn't for everyone...but those with basic automotive
skills can bolt the part together without any fabricating of special stuff
or any electrical trickery to adapt different systems to cooperate, like is
done for many of the other kit motors.  If you want real budget and real
simple, the standard 1.8 L inline gas engine bolts right in complete with
the VW diesel engine mounts with only minor mods and gives about the same
power as a good WBX motor (but better fuel consumption)

  I have respect for the guys who've done the homework and offer complete
engine transplant kits.   They've done tons of work...if you want to spend
the money to have everything done for you and to have someone standing by
to supply you with technical assistance,  go that way for sure.

  Doing an inline transplant on your own, you have to do a little looking
and figuring, but it is pretty simple, really....If I can do it...it must
be...

  Don Hanson