David (Marshall):

You posted a message advising another list subscriber to go for an engine
swap.  I assume that the engine you were talking about was the digifant
('86-up)?  My '84 of course has the digijet engine, which one mechanic has
told me (without research) is "extremely difficult" to replace with
anything but the intended waterboxer, because of the way it 'fits' into
the reins.  Now I have checked out the archives and found ideas regarding
the swapping of Audi 5E engines and Ford V6s, but what I am interested in
is a nice, affordable, bulletproof Golf/Jetta engine.  My parents have an
'87 Jetta and the engine runs nearly as peppy as the day they bought it.
Although they have no desire to give it up, there are plenty of Golfs with
and without trunks getting scrapped in southern Ontario everyday.

My engine is swappable, having been recently rebuilt.  But as you (David)
pointed out, it's bound to require re-sealing in the next 4 or 5 years.
Now, the question presents itself:  If one can get good money for a decent
waterboxer and the kit+engine are affordable, Why isn't everyone doing it?
Seems like a no-brainer, but the 'nostalgia' and 'genuineness' factors
don't seem strong enough.  Is it because the cost of swapping is
prohibitive if one doesn't perform the swap oneself?  Further, why would
there even be a market for second-hand waterboxers if their reputation for
oozing, surging, and bucking is so pervasive?  (these questions quite
intelligently posed by Jen, my partner in life and van decisions).

Thanks in advance,

Marcus
'84 Westy (Dela)