----- Original Message -----
From: Carter <carters@thegrid.net>
To: <jeff.pollak@PAONLINE.COM>
Sent: Tuesday, February 02, 1999 9:03 AM
Subject: Leaky Head Gaskets

>Hello, Jeff
>
>>Would any of you know the best course of action to take when your
>mechanic says you have leaky head gaskets? New gaskets, heads, engine? How
>about the 2.1L to replace my 1.9? Will the same wiring harness work?  Mine
>is an 85 GL<
>
>You cover a lot of ground but don't tell us much...how many miles on your
>present engine? Notwithstanding, you could do some diagnostics to make a
>determination whether to do more than just a head gasket job. Is money no
>object?
>
>Okay, now re the immediate problem at hand, the head gasket job can be done
>with the engine still in the van. If your mechanic says that is his intent,
>you might consider replacement of the water pump and the thermostat while
>you are at it. The cost for the gasket job itself runs between $1100 and
>about $1400 plus fluids. Changing the coolant and oil and filter is usually
>standard practice but make sure. The oil is changed in case coolant has
>contaminated it. Also make sure the coolant used is phosphate free.
>
>If your mech elects to do the job with the engine removed, you might
>consider inspection and possible replacement of the clutch, pressure plate
>and throwout bearing, a common practice, since replacement of same requires
>engine removal anyway.
>
>The bottom of these engines are strong. This means that they will give you
>many, many miles of service if you do regular maintenance. So, everything
>else being equal, you may just need the head gaskets done. Now, be prepared
>upon removal of the heads for corrosion of same. The heads tend to pit,
>sometimes quite badly, in the area of the gasket location. Sometimes bad
>enough to warrant filling in with JB Weld or outright replacement.
>Replacement is expensive, from $250 to $484 EACH. If you do replace them,
>you will have all new heads which is not a bad thing at all.
>
>The only other thing I can remember is that sometimes the bolts for the
>thermostat housing get stuck and break, requiring extra work (and cost) by
>the mech. Sometimes they can even require replacement. The VW cost is $225
>but you can get a used one for about $45.
>
>Kit Carter, 85 Westy
>central coast, CA
>
Thanks to all of you for the input. As money is a trmendous object, I'll
save my dimes. -Jeff