Hello folks,

I joined the list today in hopes of getting some help or direction with this
issue:

My father has an '86 Wesfalia.  A local repair shop - not a VW specialist -
told Dad that we need at least a valve job, and the once they open the
engine who knows what they might find, etc., etc.  They recommend a new
engine, installed, for around $2500.

The family is very attached to this bus, and it is useful in many ways (wish
it had more towing power, though.)  But we are not mechanics, and Dad is not
likely to spend $2500 on an old vehicle that has some other minor problems
and, because of it's age, could certainly develop more problems, both major
and minor.

I'm sure there are people on this list who know the engines inside and out,
and know the weak and strong points.  What I am hoping to hear is that valve
jobs on Vanagons are fairly easy and cheap, and that the rest of the engine
is bulletproof.  Which could mean that we could just get the valves done and
the rest of the engine would be in good shape for several years.  Might this
the case?  Or is it more likely that the repair shop is right?

And ok, we call the van "Herbie".  Not original, buy hey....

Dave