Hi Richard, Where are you located? 

        I wish you warm weather. 

If you have a solid engine I suspect changing it out will be a good solution.  But, Exhaust and such will often bring unexpected work.

Best,

Eric Caron 

> On Dec 7, 2023, at 8:05 AM, Richard Koller <brvkoller@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> 
> My ‘90 syncro westy needs major TLC. Part of the saga is replacing the
> heads . Driver’s side has a burnt valve and leaks coolant in cold weather.
> It’s been over 20 years since I replaced the original heads and I broke off
> a couple exhaust studs trying to remove the 20 year old exhaust system.
> Meanwhile I have an extra engine from an auto box that I could use hence
> the flex plate question. But setting up the flywheel and end play could
> complicated so I’m still considering the options. It’s getting cold and I
> have to work outside so time is of the essence.
> 
> On Wed, Dec 6, 2023 at 3:54 PM Eric Caron <ericcaron96@comcast.net> wrote:
> 
>> Hi Richard,
>> 
>>        This sounds like an interesting project.  Keep us posted.
>> 
>> What is the story behind the engine change?
>> 
>> Also, keep that flex plate as many of us with auto trans may need one in
>> the future!
>> 
>> Best,
>> 
>> Eric Caron
>> 
>> 
>>> On Dec 6, 2023, at 2:02 PM, Richard Koller <brvkoller@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
>>> 
>>> Thanks Dennis, will pay attention to this.
>>> Rick
>>> 
>>> On Tue, Dec 5, 2023 at 9:50 PM Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@hotmail.com>
>>> wrote:
>>> 
>>>> There are a number of variables that effect the shims required to set
>> the
>>>> crankshaft end. There is not a set for an auto flywheel vs. a manual
>>>> flywheel. Also the early 1.9 and 21.L uses a different main bearing set
>> up.
>>>> The Bentley gives instructions for setting the end play. It is common
>> that
>>>> the shims can be worn or damaged requiring replacement. You wil also
>> want
>>>> to check the case for damage from the thrust plate smashing against.
>>>> 
>>>> Having the flywheel seal fail is a common problem. GoWesty has a write
>> up
>>>> that really describes the main problem. Consider this while you have
>> things
>>>> a part.
>>>> 
>> https://gowesty.com/blogs/article-library/flywheel-or-rear-main-seal-story
>>>> 
>>>> Dennis
>>>> 
>>>> 
>>>> -----Original Message-----
>>>> From: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com> On Behalf Of
>>>> Richard Koller
>>>> Sent: Tuesday, December 5, 2023 3:44 PM
>>>> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>>>> Subject: replacing flex plate with flywheel
>>>> 
>>>> Hi all,
>>>> I am considering to use an engine from an auto to a manual. So I need to
>>>> replace the flexplate with a flywheel. I presume this should be straight
>>>> forward as long as I have the proper shims, thrust washer etc which I
>> would
>>>> use from the original "manual" controlled engine. Please advise if not.
>>>> Thanks
>>>> Rick
>>>> 
>> 
>>