My ‘90 syncro westy needs major TLC. Part of the saga is replacing the
heads . Driver’s side has a burnt valve and leaks coolant in cold weather.
It’s been over 20 years since I replaced the original heads and I broke off
a couple exhaust studs trying to remove the 20 year old exhaust system.
Meanwhile I have an extra engine from an auto box that I could use hence
the flex plate question. But setting up the flywheel and end play could
complicated so I’m still considering the options. It’s getting cold and I
have to work outside so time is of the essence.

On Wed, Dec 6, 2023 at 3:54 PM Eric Caron <ericcaron96@comcast.net> wrote:

> Hi Richard,
>
>         This sounds like an interesting project.  Keep us posted.
>
> What is the story behind the engine change?
>
> Also, keep that flex plate as many of us with auto trans may need one in
> the future!
>
> Best,
>
> Eric Caron
>
>
> > On Dec 6, 2023, at 2:02 PM, Richard Koller <brvkoller@GMAIL.COM> wrote:
> >
> > Thanks Dennis, will pay attention to this.
> > Rick
> >
> > On Tue, Dec 5, 2023 at 9:50 PM Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@hotmail.com>
> > wrote:
> >
> >> There are a number of variables that effect the shims required to set
> the
> >> crankshaft end. There is not a set for an auto flywheel vs. a manual
> >> flywheel. Also the early 1.9 and 21.L uses a different main bearing set
> up.
> >> The Bentley gives instructions for setting the end play. It is common
> that
> >> the shims can be worn or damaged requiring replacement. You wil also
> want
> >> to check the case for damage from the thrust plate smashing against.
> >>
> >> Having the flywheel seal fail is a common problem. GoWesty has a write
> up
> >> that really describes the main problem. Consider this while you have
> things
> >> a part.
> >>
> https://gowesty.com/blogs/article-library/flywheel-or-rear-main-seal-story
> >>
> >> Dennis
> >>
> >>
> >> -----Original Message-----
> >> From: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com> On Behalf Of
> >> Richard Koller
> >> Sent: Tuesday, December 5, 2023 3:44 PM
> >> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
> >> Subject: replacing flex plate with flywheel
> >>
> >> Hi all,
> >> I am considering to use an engine from an auto to a manual. So I need to
> >> replace the flexplate with a flywheel. I presume this should be straight
> >> forward as long as I have the proper shims, thrust washer etc which I
> would
> >> use from the original "manual" controlled engine. Please advise if not.
> >> Thanks
> >> Rick
> >>
>
>