TheSamba.com :: View topic - Question about Vanistan engine replacing a 1.9L

Thu Feb 26, 2015 11:23 pm

Anyone out there swap out their 1.9 with a Vanistan 2.2, or for that matter a 2.1, which I assume installs the same.

Planning on doing this later this year and gathering info on what to expect. I would like to tackle this myself if within my weekend mechanic skills and limited space in the garage.

Any step by step guides on what to install and at why point? Such as before or after installing the new engine.

I read on gowesty site that they mention I need 2.1 motor mounts? I was under the impression that the new engine bolts in with the existing ones.

So stuff like this I would like to know and prepare for in advance.

What would you consider items you should replace assuming they were original?

3 weeks new into owning this addictive wagon. It's been a crash course but have learned a lot, at least enough to know I better check things out more thoroughly.

Thanks!

Fri Feb 27, 2015 3:02 am

From Vanistan web site - "Every engine is built only on a 2.1 liter crankcase with the superior late main bearing design... My performance waterboxer engines are direct replacements for any 2.1 or 1.9 waterboxer longblock. Your existing cooling system, fuel injection, ignition and exhaust can be swapped from your old engine to the new longblock"

As for what you should replace while installing the new engine, have a look here - http://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=457174 - if you have heaps of cash you can do all of this but if not you should think about what is necessary to do versus nice to do based on the condition on your van.

Fri Feb 27, 2015 5:00 am

The long blocks are externally almost identical. My 83 1/2 POS did have a 2.1L installed using a 1.9L cooling system and exhaust, but now has a 2.1L installed using a 2.1L cooling system and exhaust.

Fri Feb 27, 2015 5:10 am

One issue you might want to investigate with whomever you buy your engine from...

Do you get full warranty coverage when you install yourself?

I have pondered what you propose at some point in the future, but I think
some of the vendors will insist/prefer that you have a recognized shop
complete the install with a proper coolant bleed, wiring check, etc.

I guess they feel punters like us could screw it all up and damage an otherwise
good engine.

I understand their concern....but also feel confident I could pull it off... :twisted:

Fri Feb 27, 2015 5:45 am

IMHO, when getting a Vanistan, RJE or GW rebuild for an early van with DigiJet management, I would also replace all of the wiring, upgrade the management to DigifantII, preferably all D series electronics, a rebuilt throttle body, VSM and use Vanistans oil cooler system.
Yes, this ups the total big time, but the performance, smoothness and reliability as well.

Fri Feb 27, 2015 6:57 am

pomfritz wrote: ...I read on gowesty site that they mention I need 2.1 motor mounts? I was under the impression that the new engine bolts in with the existing ones...

GoWesty used to list 2.2L engines based on either a 1.9 block or a 2.1 block (whichever was being replaced). They no longer list them this way but looking at their ordering info and core requirements it appears they may still build two versions of the 2.2L.

Certainly the 2.2L I got from them dropped into my '84 with no modification and has been no trouble. Also, they didn't care (or know) whether it was professionally installed or owner installed.

Any questions on the Vanistan engine would, of course, be best answered by Chris himself in a personal email.

Fri Feb 27, 2015 8:20 am

Thanks for the input. I want to do upgrades where it makes sense and fits the budget. I will post a question about the cooling system when I get a few pics of mine as there seems to have been some alteration to one of the hoses. It may have been due to NLA parts.

Fri Feb 27, 2015 8:29 am

Ahwahnee wrote:

Also, they didn't care (or know) whether it was professionally installed or owner installed.

Ah, but wasn't that a simpler time in so many ways...

they care now!

http://www.gowesty.com/view_page.php?name=New_Engine_Warranty&preview=1

Fri Feb 27, 2015 8:39 am

wecm31 wrote: Ahwahnee wrote:

Also, they didn't care (or know) whether it was professionally installed or owner installed.

Ah, but wasn't that a simpler time in so many ways...

they care now!

http://www.gowesty.com/view_page.php?name=New_Engine_Warranty&preview=1

Damn right :!:
I have seen a few unbelievably horrid DIY installations of freshly rebuilt engines, with tons of new trick parts...essentially falling off the poor motor and running in a way that could easily do damage to the new motor.
Vanistan rebuilds come with very specific instrustions for breakin and maintenance.
If not followed I can easily see all the hard work going up in flames so to speak in a matter of miles.
When I installed the first 2.2 from Vanistan, I made a phone call to Chris and we discussed some of the procedure just because I did not want any warranty issues down the road for me or my client at the time to deal with.
All was good and Chris spent the time needed to have the process go like a hot knife through butter.

I do not blame any rebuilder for having professionals, with hoists, tools and experience be the ones to install engines.
Way too many DIYs would be over their heads, IMHO.

Fri Feb 27, 2015 10:45 am

For reference BTW, 2.1 into a 1.9 van- http://www.oldvolkshome.com/19to21.htm