In a message dated 6/9/99 7:59:16 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
vholm@WEREWOLF.NET writes:

> We have a well cared for 84 Westy with lots of miles, but no rust and
almost
> everything
>  works OK. The Beast needs a new engine, however.
>
>  Here's the question: Would readers just put in a good (stock) rebuilt
engine
> or go for broke
>  and spring the $$ for a VW Golf or Audi engine swap?
>
This was the same question we considered with our 1987 Syncro.  It has
201,000 miles, and we plan to keep it forever.  Since we have had bad luck
with rebuilts, factory and local, we decided on the 5 cylinder conversion (to
be done in a month).  The total cost can be more than twice the cost of a
Wasserleaker rebuild, but you get a powerful, trouble free engine that should
last a whole lot longer.  Engine maintenance, hoses and pipes are fewer and
much cheaper.  And since the 5 cylinder has more power than the Golf and is
cheap and easy to find, it is our first choice.  Put more money up front, pay
less later.
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                              [_| VANTAZTIK |-___  ]               .
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         Zoe Ann & Roger Banker             .
   1987 4x5 Syncro Adventurewagen      .