With a bit if TLC the 1.9 can usually go to 160K or so. Head/Gasket
replacement will likely be needed. The limiting factor on these is the main
bearings and the case. The kiss of death is regular lugging and needless
over revving of the engine. It is a short stroke engine that makes power by
spinning fast. They seem happiest running from say 3,600 to 4,200 rpm. As
the crank is not counter weighted excessive revs causes the crank to flex in
the center and wear out the center main and pound out the case.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Rocket J Squirrel
Sent: Monday, August 20, 2012 8:50 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: So my stepson asks . . .

. . . how long can the engine (1.9) in my van last?

I realize there are a bazillion variables, and that engine hours are one
thing, and that years are another--but if one changes the oil regularly and
performs other routine maintenance...how long will the engine last?

Mine has about 95k miles on the clock.

--
Jack "Rocket j Squirrel" Elliott
1984 Westfalia, auto trans,
Bend, Ore.