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Sat Sep 20, 2003 3:01 pm

I have a 1982 VW Vanagon with a 2.0 lt gas engine. I'm in the process of rebuilding but am having trouble opening the crankcase. Are there any good ways of splitting them apart? Currently i'm tapping the edges with a rubber mallet but that has gotten me nowhere and the book i'm using is gives no tips. Thanks in advance.
Andres

Sat Sep 20, 2003 4:31 pm

you need to use a "case splitter", basically a small screw-drive reverse press that fits around the end of the crank shaft. Turn with a ratchet and it forces the case halves apart. CIP1 and any other decent Vw shop will sell them.

Sun Sep 21, 2003 2:47 am

...but before you buy a case splitter ( whatever that is) You should first check to see if you have all the bolts out. If I was a bettin' man I would say you still have one left... Where?... It's between the number three and number four cylinders way down low, a little above the holes ( or right inbetween) for the push rod tubes. It might have a bunch of dirt caked up in there and you wont beable to see it but it's there. Do NOT force anything! After all the bolts are out it WILL come apart will a little convinceing with a RUBBER mallet or a nice soft piece of pine 2x4 hit with a hammer... softly! Dont get all impatient and just start hammering away. You'll regret it when you put it back togather and it leaks all over the place. Take your time!

The best thing you can do is get the "Bug Me" video that covers your engine rebuild. Just watch it and follow along. Simple.

Sun Sep 21, 2003 10:28 am

Some one should make a list from that video.

Sun Sep 21, 2003 9:59 pm

Ok i found the problem, there was one bolt still in, good thing i didn't try forcing it apart, thanks for everything.

Mon Sep 22, 2003 8:11 pm

So, I guess the first lesson you've learned is too check and then check again. Dont assume anything.

Honestly I would put this on hold untill you get that video. It'll only take a few days to arrive. It will answer %95 of your questions and you can rest knowing that if you follow along with out wavering, your engine will start up and run good. I used the video and the Wilson book and the Shop talk forum board.

The engine has been running very good so far. 250 miles.

Mon Sep 22, 2003 10:31 pm

Agreed on the "BugMe" video...it really is a comprehensive resource. Also, the "Rebuilding Volkswagen Aircooled" book is a handy reference, though not quite as clear and user friendly as the video, IMO...