Here is my $0.02 worth on the subject:

At 12:30 3/31/98 -0500, Stephen Davis wrote:
>Hey Volks,
>        With all this talk about head gasket failures it got me thinking
about cost comparisons between fixing
>the heads and replacing the engine with a vw in-line 4 of some kind.  What
I would like to know is
>
>        1. How much does it cost to replace the heads yourself and how
long does it take?

No experience here.

>        2. How much does it cost swap in a in-line 4 if your van is not an
oil burner and how long does it
>        take?

Parts needed:                   Price US$
KEP adapter and flywheel:       $500
1.8L Engine Used (Minimum)      $300
2.0L Engine New         $1300
Engine mounts                   still working on that
Intake system (ABS pipe)        $25
Exhaust (custom bent)   $100
Coolant hose (8 ft)             $25

Time... Lots!  Actually I am taking my time and working in the evenings for
a few hours at a time.  The first swap is always the longest as I found out
with VW Rabbits.  I would imagine if I had to do this swap again and I
didn't have to stop and think about inventing a whole lot of stuff a
weekend of non-stop work would get it done.  Two weekend of non-stop work
to do it nice.

>        3. Can an in-line 4 be installed on an automatic?

With the KEP adapter yes!

>Thanks in advance,
>
>Later,
>Stephen Davis
>85 Westie Auto

-- David Marshall        Email: david@volkswagen.org --
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