Engine upgrade

[barefootjohnny]

I own a 77 baywindow. I lack a lot of knowledge on vw bus' and engines, but have been reading and learning as much as I can. I would like opinions from this community of vw experts.

Starting with the engine what parts should I replace (can't afford a whole new engine right now) that would make it run better or parts that are more likely needed replacing after all these years to get better mpg or overall performance. I understand its not a drag car, but I wan't to replace anything you think will cause a rougher ride due to years of wear or just due to better options today then was available in 1977.

also, recommend aftermarket performance exhaust?

Thank you for all the help. I truly appreciate it as I learn.

[lightice]

Maybe you can start listing down what engine is in your 77.

Is it a type 1 or type 4 engine?
What have you done to it, and why do you think it needs parts replacement.

[airkooledchris]

If your engine runs and you don't know much about them, don't think about anything that would be considered an 'upgrade' for now. Just pay attention to every little hose and bolt and make everything that you DO have currently - work as well as it can by being sure it's setup properly.

If you don't already, get this manual:

When you have time, take pics of your stuff and upload it here.

[cmonSTART]

I have to say my stock 2.0 FI engine is pretty nice.
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'78 Bus 2.0FI
de K1IGS

[orwell84]

There are very few bolt-on "upgrades" that improve performance much over stock. If your engine is in good condition, you would be surprised by how much you can upgrade it's performance by proper tuning and updated maintenance.

[Terminatez]

From other threads I've read, replace all the hoses and make sure all the tins are setup correctly/replace missing tins. Check your brakes and anything that has to do with your brakes. A safer ride is a better ride.
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1972 Westfalia P30 hardtop Campmobile [On-going Restoration]

[SGKent]

Find a mentor who has gone thru this already and whose bus / work you respect. Work with them privately so they can mentor you to improve your bus. This forum is great but you will go nuts listening to 20 different opinions to each question. Think of it like a journey - there are many paths that reach the same destination. Like any car the repairs will never end if you drive it a lot- although they will become maintenance instead after awhile. A mentor can assist you thru the many obstacles you will face like poor quality replacement parts, or no longer available parts etc.
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“Most people don’t know what they’re doing, and a lot of them are really good at it.” - George Carlin

[skills@eurocarsplus]

[wcfvw69]

You can also get some better answers if you post pictures of you engine. The type 4 guys (if it's a type 4 engine) can look it over and point out any obvious concerns or issues.
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[timvw7476]

The stock exhaust keeps up a certain back pressure that makes the bus
generate decent torque right where a 3,000 lb bus needs it, plus decent
fuel use & quiet. Don't toss it if it is in decent shape.