I would apologize for bringing up the conversion idea excpet that I have
had too much fun reading the backs-and-forths.  Let me say this much:

Dennis:  I think that your comments on emmissions and dangers of
overpowering the van are valid!  The fact is, however, that I am not going
for the hot-rod effect.  I am looking at an 1.8 or 1.9 litre Golf/Jetta,
engine, reknowned for being, in the words of Engineer/Auto columnist
Jim Kenzie (Toronto Star), "Indestructible".  Ask a Golf or Jetta owner.

Ken:  I sympathize more readily with you because my van's engine, looked
after by one of Toronto's more reputable Volkswagen mechanics since it
arrived in Canada, has been rebuilt recently.  Runs great now, but is
indeed going to need re-sealing sometime in the future.  Re-seal a Jetta
engine?  Never heard of it.

Can everyone ever finally agree?  Yes, when Northern Ireland and the
Republic shake hands and when Hell experiences a cold snap.  Until then,
let's get down & dirty, and continue to bring up the wide variation of
opinions, advantages, disadvatages, trials, tribulations, boasts, woes,
and fun of driving the best vehicle made.  sniff.  Is that a tear in my
eye?

Marcus Elia
'84Westy (Dela)