Jerry Granito wrote:

> << The chip should have sufficient
>  capacity to handle additional headwork, cam changes and exhaust work
(but
>  to what degree I did not fully explore).  Even a three angle valve job
>  would be a worthwhile improvement.  Richard did wisely recommend a valve
>  spring upgrade if one departs from the profile of the stock cam.   >>
>
>
> And where might one find an aftermarket camshaft for the old waterboxer?

......well, check into the possibility that the old air cooled Type 1 cam
may drop in.  I am very new to the Wasserboxer (my prior experience all
spent on Type 1/2/3 and old 911), but I have gotten the feeling from
talking to some folks recently that the cam is one area (as well as the
rockers/valve covers/maybe oil pump) where there is still parts interchange
with the Type 1.  Supposedly the stock cam profile of the Vanagon is quite
similar to the Type 1...except for the hydraulic aspect.  I think at least
the cam itself may fit....but I don't know about the gear.  It is quite
possible that it may fit too.  Worse case is that there may be some minor
mods to do to the parts involved.  Take a good look at the pictures Bentley
book.  It sure looks to me to be a spitting image of a Type 1 cam
arrangement.

Unfortunately, I cannot speak from personal experience on any of the above,
only word of mouth.  My wife and I have had our first Wasserboxer, a 1987
Syncro,  for about six weeks now.  I guess I am a little slow, as I still
haven't yet taken the engine apart.  =B7D

Anyway, check into the possibilities.  I am looking for data like everyone
else.  This so-called parts interchange is one of the things that
interested me in the Wasserboxer.  It is very interesting to me to note
that VW made a water cooled version of the Type 1 rather than the newer at
the time: the Type 4.  It is striking to compare a Wasserboxer case and a
Type 1 case side by side.

Lawrence Dongilli

87 Syncro
71 Transporter
69 Beetle
69 Squareback
66 Dormobile
54 Beetle