In a message dated 1/2/02 8:11:45 AM Pacific Standard Time,
dart330@HOTMAIL.COM writes:

<< Since VWSA is using 2.5 liter inline 5 cylinders, why isn't anyone
importing
 these? It seems to me that there is "no replacement for displacement" and
an
 extra half a liter would add alot more power. When my boxer engine goes I
 want the five cylinder. Any body know of a company with a kit? >>

YES! I announced this several weeks ago.....A company I am selling products
for is about to release a complete kit containing all of the SA parts,
including the 2.6 litre 5-cylinder torque-monster, coupled with a 5-speed
transmission, all new parts! The kit will include the raised deck as in the
SA vans also. No pricing available at this point, but will keep the list
updated on this! Also, they will be offering a complete bolt-in 1.9 litre
TDI kit using their mechanically-controlled engine, no computer or wiring to
deal with! This is also in an upright configuration, and includes a raised
deck panel for engine lid clearance.

*********************************************************
Said, Damian:

<Nathan,

One thing about a 5-banger in the Vanagon:  VW lifted the rear engine
decklid to get this in.  That means you have to too.

The 5-banger is a great engine, but, as one mechanic put it to me "it
has long legs" - meaning it is a great highway cruiser but bottom end
torque isn't great.  HOWEVER - there are a lot of different versions
of this engine and the 20v turbo was an awesome engine but it won't
get into a Vanagon very well.

Four bangers can compete well with the 5s and go in a lot easier.

Damian>

Obviously you have never driven an Audi with a 2.3 NA 5 cylinder? The torque
band is nothing short of incredible! The engine pulls without a complaint
all the way down to 1000 rpm. I have one in my 80 Quattro, and it is always
smooth, powerful, and torquey, as well as having the capacity for high-speed
cruising you mention. Well suited to the Vanagon, IMO!

Karl Mullendore
Westy Ventures
1987 Syncro Westfalia 1.9TD

Complete conversion kits now available for the Vanagon: I-4 1.9 NA diesel,
soon will have I-4 TDI and I-5 Audi 2.6 with 5-speed trans kit available!