In a message dated 98-03-24 12:32:17 EST, Unkaducky@AOL.COM writes:

<< the reason i choose these vehicles is because i am a half-a@@ed
survivilist... i need a vanagon...to, if nessessary, throw my kit into and bug
out for someplace safer...i buy things for durability, easy maintence and
replacement parts , maintence i can do myself...thankyou

ducky >>

Ducky--

If you have the wherewithall to consider a $13,000 vehicle, than the proper
motor for your needs is well within your grasp. I would suggest the 1985-88 VW
turbo Diesel inline four. (That's right, NOT the TDi, read on).

One of the most unreliable and troublesome systems of any vehicle is the part
that carries electrons: the wires, switches, sensors, relays, fuses and all
the junk that folks are constantly having to fiddle with.

Gasoline engines, and more so, fuel injected gasoline engines rely heavily on
moving electrons to create sparks, and meticulously regulate fuel flow. What a
dainty idea.

On the other hand, the VW Diesel (after starting) can run without any
electrons.  There is a small "stop plunger" on top of the fuel pump: it is the
only part of this motor that normally uses volts. In an emergency, remove this
(5 min.) and your motor runs with zero electricity. That is survivalist. That
is durability.

The survivalist in you knows that electrons are highly vulnerable not only to
floods, but also to EMP (Electro-Mangentic Pulse). EMP occurs after a nuclear
blast and will effectively disable ALL electrical equipment. But not your van,
if you have this motor. If you have a manual gearbox, you can pushstart this
vehicle, and you are one of the few on the road, whether in flood, earthquake
or nuclear blast. Beer run! :)

Unfortunately, the TDi needs volts. The Hp is adaquate, around 70, with around
105 lb/ft of torque. The '85-88 motor is newer than your vehicle, so I think
it will fly in CA. They are not plentiful, but certainly available. I'd guess
around $5k-$6k for the motor and all the gear, or buy a junked Jetta.

best of luck

gmbulley
cary, nc