Ouch! 

        I’m running a GW 2.3 just broken in at about 3,000 miles.  Very happy so far with everything about it.  I’m totally good with conversions.  If I had not gone this route I likely would have gone with the FAS new Jetta conversion. But, I enjoy the way this vanagon engine is running and I like keeping it somewhat original. 

However, after I’ve put on 150 K miles I may be considering a conversion but likely then it will be to electric.

Eric Caron 
85 GL 2.3 

> On Dec 27, 2021, at 3:55 PM, Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@SBCGLOBAL.NET> wrote:
> 
> Lots of good reviews about Bostig conversion.  And of course Subie conversions (am extremely satisfied with mine at 60K miles).  They made a LOT of both of those motors; abundant parts and knowledgeable mechanics.  Vanagon motors...not so much...unfortunately.
> 
>    On Sunday, December 26, 2021, 06:07:42 PM PST, rowan@dragonhome.org <rowan@dragonhome.org> wrote:  
> 
> 
> Quoting Richard Koerner <rjkinpb@sbcglobal.net>:
> Richard,
> 
> My wife and I are 77 and 79. We bought a new Promaster in 2017. Last
> year I bought an '89 Syncro tintop. I like it much better than the
> Promaster. Easier and more fun to drive, fits in smaller parking
> places, is more like camping and less like RVing. This winter it
> will get a Bostig conversion for dependable driving.
> 
> r
> 
> Rowan Tipton
> Knoxville, TN
> 
>> I've been a VW Van owner since 1974 ('70 Bus).  Upgraded to 1985  
>> Vanagon in '89.  Always have loved the platform size...fits nicely  
>> into my garage, and of course everywhere else.  Yes, am old enough  
>> to have enjoyed the Wallaced Experience!
>> 
>> Here's the thing:  I've been noticing that many shops are closing.   
>> Many sources are starting to dry up.  Mechanics that know what they  
>> are doing are retiring.  With that in mind....I have been diligently  
>> keeping my Vanagon totally up to snuff as best I can.  New Subie  
>> motor, new transmission, new coolant system and associated  
>> components involved in engine swap....getting ready for new front  
>> suspension stuff and brakes on all 4 wheels.  Actually, those are  
>> the last two areas that need attention.... I'd be ready at a  
>> moment's notice to travel anywhere in the lower 48 tomorrow.
>> I'm 68.  In 20 years I'll be 88.  It will be time to let the Vanagon  
>> go to some younger buck....assuming any interest. 
>> 
>> Yes...I've looked into the Sprinter/Transit/Ram platforms and am  
>> handy enough to turn any of these into a superb camper van....OK I  
>> guess...but won't fit into my garage.  The money is no object.
>> Wondering if you guys, especially the elders like me, are having  
>> similar thoughts and concerns?  How to keep Vanagon reliable and  
>> strong, no matter where I travel in the USA?
> 
> 
> 
>