In a message dated 10/3/99 3:24:47 PM Eastern Daylight Time, Yovanguy@AOL.COM
writes:

<< Can any body tell me if the basic engine is the same on a '79, as there is
 one at the local pick and pull, as it is in the '81 or is this a 1700 or
 something, the heater boxes outlets are not, but might be worth it if the
 long blocks the same??

 Appreciate any help, any other major part interchangable
  >>

the '79 is the 2.0L just like the vanagon - but it has a different alternator
setup, different cooling fan ducting, different engine tin, etc.  doable -
but it's not just a bolt in thing.
FYI, i have two good 2.0L aircooled vanagon motors for sale, if your
interested.
chris
allentown, pa