New 009 distributor is $100. Used Vanagon dist. runs $50-100 at junkyard.

Keep a few drops of oil in the pad, and it shouldn't blow up. I have seen
other dist.s unexplainably throw a weight through the side. In these cases,
I have noted that there was no lubrication on the surfaces, leading me to
believe that the oil on the pad is important to keep the dist happy.

As far as the head gaskets, if you can make it last, do so. When the
weather changes (fall), you will know if you can make it through the
winter...

G. Matthew Bulley
Bulley-Hewlett & Associates
www.bulley-hewlett.com
Cary, NC USA
888.468.4880 tollfree

-----Original Message-----
From:   Vern Creamer [SMTP:vccreamer@EARTHLINK.NET]
Sent:   Saturday, August 07, 1999 4:59 PM
To:     vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject:        Engine Woes -- Need Some Advice

 << File: ATT00015.htm >> We have an '87 Weekender that's in great shape
... except for a couple of recent engine developments.

The day before our annual family vacation, the distributor "blew up" (our
mechanic's words).  What causes that to happen?  I am told it is a $400+
part and am reluctant to invest the money in an engine that has begun
displaying several signs of head gasket problems.

Do we replace the distributor for the moment and try to get by with this
engine until next year (when we can better afford a replacement) or do we
go for the engine replacement now?  I am considering the Subaru engine
swap, but do not know the first thing about beginning this process.
 Suggestions?

As we have in the past, we look forward to the great advice and suggestions
from members of the list.

Vern & Heather
Omaha, NE
'87 Weekender
'72 and '73 BMW Bavarias (for sale)