Stranded in New England

21
Hart

Congratulations on what sounds like a dream purchase! Can't wait to see the beast!

Mark.

On Sun, Jul 4, 2010 at 7:49 PM, Hartmut Kiehn <hartis@live.com.au> wrote:

Hi All,

I am truly sorry that some of our friends got stuck in the middle of nowhere but on the bright side, Isn’t it heart warming to read how committed and positive you are about this little hiccup in life you are. This is the true SYNCRO spirit, well done.

Tomorrow first thing, I will order 3 switches for the fleet, Since of today we have 3 Syns in the yard (my thanks to Ken, who alerted me to the last one)

Anyway, I better fill yous in what happened to me yester/today, I took the early flight to Brissi from Port Mac. To arrive with 3 hrs delay. I was greeted by Ross who picked me up from the a/p in the most beautiful Trakka I have seen in a long time. We went to his sister’s house where I had a look at the bus I had bought and Elke had paid for by bank transfer. I had such good vibes talking to the seller over the phone that we paid without having seen the vehicle. And as it turned out Ross , the seller, also a greenie/permaculturist/enviro – save the world fanatic like me, had kept this Trakka in pristine condition. It looks like he’s never driven it in bad weather or rain!! Ross was the second owner, the first one , an engineer, bought it from , then, Northshore Volkswagen at Brookvale(Sydney) in 1990. He bought it as a BRONCO TRAKKA ,and lots of original docs came with it. It has the original brushed Trakka roo-bar and the polished rear bumper with towbar. There is also documentation and the stamped license plate in the right foot well, so registering should be possible ( you never ever know your luck in NSW). A few extras which I didn’t notice in the ad are a supa dupa Sony sound system, 2 swivel seats, Trakka front sports front seats, hot/cold water which works, 3 awnings, heaps of recovery gear, plus Bentleys,4 new tyres, 4 new shocks, new brakes, 1 new battery (last week), aricon, and heaps of other little thingos like cup holders, reading lights , 2 gas cylinders etc etc.... and best of all, there is not dint or scratch in the paint work.

After having had my tea and home baked organic cake and ready to hit the road and unfamiliar with QLD road users I asked Ross for advice on the road tolls to be paid going South, he simply said not to worry about that as he had advised the authorities and he had already paid the tolls..............

There you go...it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom when you buy on the net......

Hope to see you soon Hartmut

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Les Harris
Sent: Sunday, 4 July 2010 3:33 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

Thanks Bill.

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Bill
Sent: 04 July 2010 14:47
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

Les. Modified AFM harness. Bill


22
Great work Hart.
 
Cant wait to see this one at Valla in a few weeks!
 
Sounds like a hotel on wheels - hot and cold water showers - total luxury.
 
Cheers,
 
Scott
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Sunday, July 04, 2010 7:49 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England // NOT STRANDED IN NEW ENGLAND

 

Hi All,

I am truly sorry that some of our friends got stuck in the middle of nowhere but on the bright side, Isn’t it heart warming to read how committed and positive you are about this little hiccup in life you are. This is the true SYNCRO spirit, well done.

Tomorrow first thing, I will order 3 switches for the fleet, Since of today we have 3 Syns in the yard (my thanks to Ken, who alerted me to the last one)

Anyway, I better fill yous in what happened to me yester/today, I took the  early flight to Brissi from Port Mac. To arrive with 3 hrs delay. I was greeted  by Ross who picked me up from the a/p in the most beautiful Trakka I have seen in a long time. We went to his sister’s house where I had a look at the bus I had bought and Elke had paid for by bank transfer. I had such good vibes talking to the seller over the phone that we paid without having seen the vehicle. And as it turned out Ross , the seller, also a greenie/permacultur ist/enviro – save the world fanatic like me, had kept this Trakka in pristine condition. It looks like he’s never driven it in bad weather or rain!!  Ross was the second owner, the first one , an engineer, bought it from , then, Northshore Volkswagen at Brookvale(Sydney) in 1990. He bought it as a BRONCO TRAKKA ,and lots of original docs came with it. It has the original brushed Trakka roo-bar and the polished rear bumper with towbar. There is also documentation and the stamped license plate in the right foot well, so registering should be possible ( you never ever know your luck in NSW). A few extras which I didn’t notice in the ad  are a supa dupa Sony sound system, 2 swivel seats, Trakka front sports front seats, hot/cold water which works, 3 awnings, heaps of recovery gear, plus Bentleys,4 new tyres, 4 new shocks, new brakes, 1 new battery (last week), aricon, and heaps of other little thingos like cup holders, reading lights , 2 gas cylinders etc etc.... and best of all, there is not dint or scratch in the paint work.

After having had my tea and home baked organic cake and ready to hit the road and unfamiliar with QLD road users  I asked Ross for advice on the road tolls  to be paid going South, he simply said not to worry about that as he had advised the authorities and he had already paid the tolls....... .......

There you go...it doesn’t have to be doom and gloom when you buy on the net......

Hope to see you soon   Hartmut

From: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com [mailto:Syncro_ T3_Australia@ yahoogroups. com] On Behalf Of Les Harris
Sent: Sunday, 4 July 2010 3:33 PM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England

 

Thanks Bill.

From: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com [mailto:Syncro_ T3_Australia@ yahoogroups. com] On Behalf Of Bill
Sent: 04 July 2010 14:47
To: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England

 

Les. Modified AFM harness. Bill

23
It is not really needed as a spare, as it will not cause you to be stranded, but just an inconvenience.
If you turn the engine off for 30 minutes everything will be OK.

Phill


> Michael Rayner <mrayner51@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
> Many thanks Phil for filling me in (pun intended). Concise and
> understandable
> even to me. Have you or other members installed these 'harness' to the
> AFM or
> carry them as an emergency spare.
> Regards
>
>
> Michael
>
>
>
>
> ________________________________
> From: "plander@optusnet.com.au" <plander@optusnet.com.au>
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Sun, 4 July, 2010 1:14:52 PM
> Subject: Re: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
>
>
> > Michael Rayner <mrayner51@yahoo.com> wrote:
> >
> > What is this 'Vanagon Syndrome' that every one talks about.
> > Hope it's not contagious.
> > Regards
> > Michael
> >
>
> Read about it here
>
> http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/afmharness/afmharness.htm
>
>
>
>
>
>
24
Great reading Ken. Thanks very much, I'm getting my head around this 'syndrome'.  If I have had no previous  problems with 'syndrome' on long hwy trips, is it possible that my vehicle will be free from 'syndrome' ailments?
 
Regards

Michael


From: Ken Garratt <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
To: Syncro _T3_Australia forum <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Sun, 4 July, 2010 7:43:30 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

 

Michael and all,
 
A bit of light reading on the AFM issue ...
 

Hesitation, cough cough: http://www.gowesty. com/library_ article.php? id=805

A bit of novel trivia .... GoWesty states in the above article … “We are currently working on a completely new system that does not use the Digifant computer at all. This new system, which is currently in the testing phase, features a state-of-the- art computer made in Australia.”

 

Running issues: http://www.gowesty. com/library_ article.php? id=929

 

Rebuilt AFM: http://www.gowesty. com/ec_view_ details.php? id=4026&category_id=&category_parent_ id=

 

New AFM: http://www.gowesty. com/ec_view_ details.php? id=2377&category_id= 253&category_parent_ id=

 

Signal filter: http://www.gowesty. com/ec_view_ details.php? id=3825&category_id= 2377&category_parent_ id=

 

AFM user servicing: http://autos. groups.yahoo. com/group/ Syncro_T3_ Australia/ files/Digifant% 20Fault%20Findin g/

 

My view is one should first attempt to service ones own AFM as described in the last article found at the last link above.

Secondly if one is patient, the signal filter can be purchased secondhand for around $50 plus on eBay or The Samba. Or else try getting a new one for free from your local VW dealership if you can demonstrate to them the requisite symptoms and show them the attached pdf file.

 

I also think it is an inconvenient truth that choosing to ignore the AFM maintenance issue, then sooner or later you will get stranded, inconvenienced and financially put out.

 

Cheers.

Ken 


 
To: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com
From: mrayner51@yahoo. com
Date: Sat, 3 Jul 2010 22:21:18 -0700
Subject: Re: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England

 
Many thanks Phil for filling me in (pun intended). Concise and understandable even to me. Have you or other members installed these 'harness' to the AFM or carry them as an emergency spare.
 
Regards

Michael


From: "plander@optusnet. com.au" <plander@optusnet. com.au>
To: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com
Sent: Sun, 4 July, 2010 1:14:52 PM
Subject: Re: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England

 



> Michael Rayner <mrayner51@yahoo. com> wrote:
>
> What is this 'Vanagon Syndrome' that every one talks about.
> Hope it's not contagious.
> Regards
> Michael
>

Read about it here

http://www.teluspla net.net/public/ gary2a/rack/ afmharness/ afmharness. htm



 

Find it on Domain.com.au Need a new place to live?

 
25
No.
Like any vehicle, they deteriorate over time and with wear & tear. There is no simpler solution than regular vehicle monitoring and preventative maintenance. Sorry.

One merely has to decide whether or not such a unique vehicle is worth all the effort.
If you are an enthusiast, you do get to learn a lot along the way.

I do concede though ... not for the faint of heart or those who are not "hands on".
Cheers.
Ken



-----Original Message-----
From: Michael Rayner <mrayner51@yahoo.com>
Sent: Monday, 5 July 2010 10:35 AM
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England



[The entire original message is not included]
26
Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have done
and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.

Cheers,

Scott

----- Original Message -----
From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 12:17 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England


> No.
> Like any vehicle, they deteriorate over time and with wear & tear. There
> is no simpler solution than regular vehicle monitoring and preventative
> maintenance. Sorry.
>
> One merely has to decide whether or not such a unique vehicle is worth all
> the effort.
> If you are an enthusiast, you do get to learn a lot along the way.
>
> I do concede though ... not for the faint of heart or those who are not
> "hands on".
> Cheers.
> Ken
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Michael Rayner <mrayner51@yahoo.com>
> Sent: Monday, 5 July 2010 10:35 AM
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
>
> [The entire original message is not included]
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
27

Whilst a Subaru engine, particularly the later 2.5 litre, has a lot going for it, it is a major undertaking and something not to be undertaken lightly.  The MV engine is rebuildable and will see out most Syncro owners.  It is no more troublesome than any 20 year old engine.  It comes down to personal priorities.  Most of us are satisfied with the MV but even I will admit that the thought of a late 2.5 engine is very tempting!

And Andrew Keith (Ossyncro) can be added to the list. 

Les

 

-----Original Message-----
From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com ] On Behalf Of Mr Scott Pitcher
Sent: 05 July 2010 12:38
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have done and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.

Cheers,

Scott

 

28
A well maintained and serviced WBX is a great and reliable engine.Apart from the well documented head gasket problems,the engine itself should go for ever(or close).If looked after.
A late Subaru engine seems to me to be the closest 'kit form' engine conversion for T3/T25.
I looked into other VW and Holden V6 engines,but these conversions I would of been winging it,on my own and fabricating everything.I also would of probably had to of gone with an adaptor plate conversion.
'Bang for Buck' the Subaru was the best option for a standard engine swap.
Having said all that,My WBX has never missed a beat(the water distrubution tree broke, three days after I bought it).Me and my Girls have had some good road trips in it.I have gone further than Hilux.As my family grows,I am finding that the WBX is under powered for those fully loaded Christmas holiday camping trips.
I cant wait for Christmas this year.May even tow a trailer!Look out.
--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Les Harris" <leslieharris@...> wrote:
>
> Whilst a Subaru engine, particularly the later 2.5 litre, has a lot going
> for it, it is a major undertaking and something not to be undertaken
> lightly. The MV engine is rebuildable and will see out most Syncro owners.
> It is no more troublesome than any 20 year old engine. It comes down to
> personal priorities. Most of us are satisfied with the MV but even I will
> admit that the thought of a late 2.5 engine is very tempting!
>
> And Andrew Keith (Ossyncro) can be added to the list.
>
> Les
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Mr Scott Pitcher
> Sent: 05 July 2010 12:38
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have done
> and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Scott
>
29
Ben,
 
The more girls you have - the greater the load space required.
 
If you could organise one of those car carrying fully enclosed dual axle trailers - you might come close to the stuff my girls want to bring every time.
 
At the moment we have been taking 2 kombis - the syncro camper and the 71 microbus. Between the 2 we can almost take enough stuff. The poor 1.6L donk in the 71 definitely struggles though!
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
----- Original Message -----
From: bencroft96
Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:01 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

 

A well maintained and serviced WBX is a great and reliable engine.Apart from the well documented head gasket problems,the engine itself should go for ever(or close).If looked after.
A late Subaru engine seems to me to be the closest 'kit form' engine conversion for T3/T25.
I looked into other VW and Holden V6 engines,but these conversions I would of been winging it,on my own and fabricating everything.I also would of probably had to of gone with an adaptor plate conversion.
'Bang for Buck' the Subaru was the best option for a standard engine swap.
Having said all that,My WBX has never missed a beat(the water distrubution tree broke, three days after I bought it).Me and my Girls have had some good road trips in it.I have gone further than Hilux.As my family grows,I am finding that the WBX is under powered for those fully loaded Christmas holiday camping trips.
I cant wait for Christmas this year.May even tow a trailer!Look out.
--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Les Harris" <leslieharris@...> wrote:
>
> Whilst a Subaru engine, particularly the later 2.5 litre, has a lot going
> for it, it is a major undertaking and something not to be undertaken
> lightly. The MV engine is rebuildable and will see out most Syncro owners.
> It is no more troublesome than any 20 year old engine. It comes down to
> personal priorities. Most of us are satisfied with the MV but even I will
> admit that the thought of a late 2.5 engine is very tempting!
>
> And Andrew Keith (Ossyncro) can be added to the list.
>
> Les
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Mr Scott Pitcher
> Sent: 05 July 2010 12:38
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have done
> and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Scott
>

30
Well at least he will already carrying the proverbial 'kitchen sink' unless his Syncro is not a camper.


BenT

Sent from my kitchenless Syncro

On Jul 4, 2010, at 10:10 PM, "Mr Scott Pitcher" <spbconsulting@bigpond.com> wrote:

Ben,
 
The more girls you have - the greater the load space required.
 
If you could organise one of those car carrying fully enclosed dual axle trailers - you might come close to the stuff my girls want to bring every time.
 
At the moment we have been taking 2 kombis - the syncro camper and the 71 microbus. Between the 2 we can almost take enough stuff. The poor 1.6L donk in the 71 definitely struggles though!
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
----- Original Message -----
From: bencroft96
Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:01 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

 

A well maintained and serviced WBX is a great and reliable engine.Apart from the well documented head gasket problems,the engine itself should go for ever(or close).If looked after.
A late Subaru engine seems to me to be the closest 'kit form' engine conversion for T3/T25.
I looked into other VW and Holden V6 engines,but these conversions I would of been winging it,on my own and fabricating everything.I also would of probably had to of gone with an adaptor plate conversion.
'Bang for Buck' the Subaru was the best option for a standard engine swap.
Having said all that,My WBX has never missed a beat(the water distrubution tree broke, three days after I bought it).Me and my Girls have had some good road trips in it.I have gone further than Hilux.As my family grows,I am finding that the WBX is under powered for those fully loaded Christmas holiday camping trips.
I cant wait for Christmas this year.May even tow a trailer!Look out.
--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Les Harris" <leslieharris@...> wrote:
>
> Whilst a Subaru engine, particularly the later 2.5 litre, has a lot going
> for it, it is a major undertaking and something not to be undertaken
> lightly. The MV engine is rebuildable and will see out most Syncro owners.
> It is no more troublesome than any 20 year old engine. It comes down to
> personal priorities. Most of us are satisfied with the MV but even I will
> admit that the thought of a late 2.5 engine is very tempting!
>
> And Andrew Keith (Ossyncro) can be added to the list.
>
> Les
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Mr Scott Pitcher
> Sent: 05 July 2010 12:38
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have done
> and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Scott
>

31
Scott,you see thats were I got it right.My next(due in 4 weeks) is a boy.Now I can stop.Ive seen your tribe,reminds me of what I already have(on a smaller scale),I feel for you brother.


--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Mr Scott Pitcher" <spbconsulting@...> wrote:
>
> Ben,
>
> The more girls you have - the greater the load space required.
>
> If you could organise one of those car carrying fully enclosed dual axle trailers - you might come close to the stuff my girls want to bring every time.
>
> At the moment we have been taking 2 kombis - the syncro camper and the 71 microbus. Between the 2 we can almost take enough stuff. The poor 1.6L donk in the 71 definitely struggles though!
>
> Cheers,
>
> Skot
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: bencroft96
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:01 PM
> Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
>
> A well maintained and serviced WBX is a great and reliable engine.Apart from the well documented head gasket problems,the engine itself should go for ever(or close).If looked after.
> A late Subaru engine seems to me to be the closest 'kit form' engine conversion for T3/T25.
> I looked into other VW and Holden V6 engines,but these conversions I would of been winging it,on my own and fabricating everything.I also would of probably had to of gone with an adaptor plate conversion.
> 'Bang for Buck' the Subaru was the best option for a standard engine swap.
> Having said all that,My WBX has never missed a beat(the water distrubution tree broke, three days after I bought it).Me and my Girls have had some good road trips in it.I have gone further than Hilux.As my family grows,I am finding that the WBX is under powered for those fully loaded Christmas holiday camping trips.
> I cant wait for Christmas this year.May even tow a trailer!Look out.
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Les Harris" <leslieharris@> wrote:
> >
> > Whilst a Subaru engine, particularly the later 2.5 litre, has a lot going
> > for it, it is a major undertaking and something not to be undertaken
> > lightly. The MV engine is rebuildable and will see out most Syncro owners.
> > It is no more troublesome than any 20 year old engine. It comes down to
> > personal priorities. Most of us are satisfied with the MV but even I will
> > admit that the thought of a late 2.5 engine is very tempting!
> >
> > And Andrew Keith (Ossyncro) can be added to the list.
> >
> > Les
> >
> >
> >
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> > [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Mr Scott Pitcher
> > Sent: 05 July 2010 12:38
> > To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
> >
> > Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have done
> > and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
> >
> > Cheers,
> >
> > Scott
> >
>
32
Yes we do the same, my wife and boys in air con in the Forrester, me toughing it out in the syncro fully loaded with bikes and all the extra gear.

It does mean we can setup the syncro with its insane campsite filling awning and not have to take it down too often.

Gary

[2 0 / 2 1 Design]
28 Gwynne St
Richmond
Vic 3121
gary@twentytwentyone.net
www.twentytwentyone.net
Tel 3 9429 1868
Fax 3 9421 1110
Mob 0417 352782

On 05/07/2010, at 3:10 PM, Mr Scott Pitcher wrote:

 

Ben,
 
The more girls you have - the greater the load space required.
 
If you could organise one of those car carrying fully enclosed dual axle trailers - you might come close to the stuff my girls want to bring every time.
 
At the moment we have been taking 2 kombis - the syncro camper and the 71 microbus. Between the 2 we can almost take enough stuff. The poor 1.6L donk in the 71 definitely struggles though!
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
----- Original Message -----
From: bencroft96
Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:01 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England

 

A well maintained and serviced WBX is a great and reliable engine.Apart from the well documented head gasket problems,the engine itself should go for ever(or close).If looked after.
A late Subaru engine seems to me to be the closest 'kit form' engine conversion for T3/T25.
I looked into other VW and Holden V6 engines,but these conversions I would of been winging it,on my own and fabricating everything.I also would of probably had to of gone with an adaptor plate conversion.
'Bang for Buck' the Subaru was the best option for a standard engine swap.
Having said all that,My WBX has never missed a beat(the water distrubution tree broke, three days after I bought it).Me and my Girls have had some good road trips in it.I have gone further than Hilux.As my family grows,I am finding that the WBX is under powered for those fully loaded Christmas holiday camping trips.
I cant wait for Christmas this year.May even tow a trailer!Look out.
--- In Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com, "Les Harris" <leslieharris@ ...> wrote:
>
> Whilst a Subaru engine, particularly the later 2.5 litre, has a lot going
> for it, it is a major undertaking and something not to be undertaken
> lightly. The MV engine is rebuildable and will see out most Syncro owners.
> It is no more troublesome than any 20 year old engine. It comes down to
> personal priorities. Most of us are satisfied with the MV but even I will
> admit that the thought of a late 2.5 engine is very tempting!
>
> And Andrew Keith (Ossyncro) can be added to the list.
>
> Les
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com
> [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com] On Behalf Of Mr Scott Pitcher
> Sent: 05 July 2010 12:38
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia @yahoogroups. com
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australi a] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have done
> and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Scott
>



33
There is a very 'kit' T3 engine conversion.
the Bostig Zetec Ford 16 valve 2.0 liter engine .
 
you buy the kit for $ 5K US ....pick up a low miles engine in a boneyard for 40 to 600 dollars,
get an air box, and alternator ...
and put it all together.
supposed to be purely plug n' play.
no wiring harness to do, etc.
 
Subaru's on the other ...
each conversion is semi-unique.
Though someone should make  a kit exclusively for the SOHC  2.5 since those are so common.
SmallCar does , make a kit pretty much I believe, but you still have to do the wiring harnes, or have someone do it.
I do like the subaru conversions ..
I like that it's an engine in that matches the original concept - oppsed four aluminum engine ..
it's just a whole lot more evolved one than the waterboxer.
 
waterboxers only have two real problems....marginal power, and somewhat joke head gaskets, but we do manage to live with them pretty well anyway.
 
but go from one of those  to 160 rippin' Subaru horse power and 6,200 rpm to play with ...
that'll make a believer out of you !
 
there very rewarding, I'll sure say that.
It's better to go with a dedicated Bell Housing and subaru clutch disc compatable gearbox input shaft ..
I like the RJES bell housing myself..
SO much better than an adapter system ..you're using subaru flywheel, clutch, and starter on a subru engine ...and it clears a Syncro's locking rear dif actuator quite nicely, unlike the stock set up which a real PIA to deal with sometimes, getting the starter out, since that acator and bracket is in the way . 
 
anyway, aren't we lucky we get to play like this !
I'm saving a terribly rusted syncro 7 passenger van right now ..
gettting underside rust restoration and reubilding, rebuilt gear box, and 'better' 2.2 liter waterboxer engine.
 
I've emailed with this guy ....I am pretty confident in his engine , I can tell he really gives it great effort.  We'll have a thermostatically controlled oil cooler on it ...
expecting it to go well, and work well, and last well.
 
and ..check this out ...the throttle switch on the throttle body ..I find those out of adjustment all the time, worn out or corroded so they can't be adjusted anymore etc...
we have, to put on this engine, an electro-aneroid  devicve, that signals the ecu that throttle is closed....
and it senses it not by mechanical throttle plate or switch position, but by vacuum, and I suspect is quite superior to the purely mechical switch system of old.
 
Do you have a day equivilant to the US's July 4th  ?  
Declaring independence from Britain  ?
 
cheers,
Scott
oregon, USA
 
----- Original Message -----
From: bencroft96
Sent: Sunday, July 04, 2010 10:01 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

 

A well maintained and serviced WBX is a great and reliable engine.Apart from the well documented head gasket problems,the engine itself should go for ever(or close).If looked after.
A late Subaru engine seems to me to be the closest 'kit form' engine conversion for T3/T25.
I looked into other VW and Holden V6 engines,but these conversions I would of been winging it,on my own and fabricating everything.I also would of probably had to of gone with an adaptor plate conversion.
'Bang for Buck' the Subaru was the best option for a standard engine swap.
Having said all that,My WBX has never missed a beat(the water distrubution tree broke, three days after I bought it).Me and my Girls have had some good road trips in it.I have gone further than Hilux.As my family grows,I am finding that the WBX is under powered for those fully loaded Christmas holiday camping trips.
I cant wait for Christmas this year.May even tow a trailer!Look out.
--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Les Harris" <leslieharris@...> wrote:
>
> Whilst a Subaru engine, particularly the later 2.5 litre, has a lot going
> for it, it is a major undertaking and something not to be undertaken
> lightly. The MV engine is rebuildable and will see out most Syncro owners.
> It is no more troublesome than any 20 year old engine. It comes down to
> personal priorities. Most of us are satisfied with the MV but even I will
> admit that the thought of a late 2.5 engine is very tempting!
>
> And Andrew Keith (Ossyncro) can be added to the list.
>
> Les
>
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Mr Scott Pitcher
> Sent: 05 July 2010 12:38
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have done
> and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Scott
>

34
No Ken.

But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.

Skot

----- Original Message -----
From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:33 PM
Subject: FW: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England


> Scott,
> Can you still open the small back flap and check/add/change the engine oil
> and coolant?
> Yes or no will suffice.
> Cheers.
> Ken
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com>
> Sent: Monday, 5 July 2010 12:36 PM
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have
> done
> and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Scott
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
> To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 12:17 PM
> Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
> > No.
> > Like any vehicle, they deteriorate over time and with wear & tear. There
> > is no simpler solution than regular vehicle monitoring and preventative
> > maintenance. Sorry.
> >
> > One merely has to decide whether or not such a unique vehicle is worth
> > all
> > the effort.
> > If you are an enthusiast, you do get to learn a lot along the way.
> >
> > I do concede though ... not for the faint of heart or those who are not
> > "hands on".
> > Cheers.
> > Ken
> >
> >
> >
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: Michael Rayner <mrayner51@yahoo.com>
> > Sent: Monday, 5 July 2010 10:35 AM
> > To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
> >
> >
> >
> > [The entire original message is not included]
> >
> >
> > ------------------------------------
> >
> > Yahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
35
Small Car, in Tacoma, Washington, USA, offers a dipstick which allows
checking the oil from the rear. This leaves only the ability to add oil
as a missing feature for the Subaru conversion, as the coolant overflow
tank remains in it's original position. A good Subaru will rarely need a
top up of oil, so it's usually no loss overall!

Larry Hamm
'82 SyncroWesty/2006 Subaru 2.5L

Mr Scott Pitcher wrote:
> No Ken.
>
> But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.
>
> Skot
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
> To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:33 PM
> Subject: FW: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
>> Scott,
>> Can you still open the small back flap and check/add/change the engine oil
>> and coolant?
>> Yes or no will suffice.
>> Cheers.
>> Ken
>>
>>
>> -----Original Message-----
>> From: Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com>
>> Sent: Monday, 5 July 2010 12:36 PM
>> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
>> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>>
>> Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have
>> done
>> and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
>>
>> Cheers,
>>
>> Scott
>>
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
>> To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
>> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 12:17 PM
>> Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>>
>>
>>> No.
>>> Like any vehicle, they deteriorate over time and with wear & tear. There
>>> is no simpler solution than regular vehicle monitoring and preventative
>>> maintenance. Sorry.
>>>
>>> One merely has to decide whether or not such a unique vehicle is worth
>>> all
>>> the effort.
>>> If you are an enthusiast, you do get to learn a lot along the way.
>>>
>>> I do concede though ... not for the faint of heart or those who are not
>>> "hands on".
>>> Cheers.
>>> Ken
36
Hi all,

Finally made it back to Melbourne. Some useful discussion here. I had good intentions of curing the Vanagon Syndrome but it didn't make it to the top of the lengthy 'to do' list. Still waiting for Lloyd's diagnosis...

Michael (and others), the tow truck driver confirms that De Jong near Bairnsdale is an excellent mechanic for European cars, by the way.

Just out of interest, if you don't have the expertise to install a Subaru engine yourself, how much are you looking to pay to have one fitted, approximately?

Cheers,

Francesca.

On Mon, Jul 5, 2010 at 4:03 PM, Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com> wrote:
No Ken.

But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.

Skot

----- Original Message -----
From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:33 PM
Subject: FW: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England


> Scott,
> Can you still open the small back flap and check/add/change the engine oil
> and coolant?
> Yes or no will suffice.
> Cheers.
> Ken
>
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com>
> Sent: Monday, 5 July 2010 12:36 PM
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> Or you can do what Ben is doing and Yurik and I and several others have
> done
> and replace the troublesome VW donk with a modern Scooby Doo motor.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Scott
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
> To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 12:17 PM
> Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
> > No.
> > Like any vehicle, they deteriorate over time and with wear & tear. There
> > is no simpler solution than regular vehicle monitoring and preventative
> > maintenance. Sorry.
> >
> > One merely has to decide whether or not such a unique vehicle is worth
> > all
> > the effort.
> > If you are an enthusiast, you do get to learn a lot along the way.
> >
> > I do concede though ... not for the faint of heart or those who are not
> > "hands on".
> > Cheers.
> > Ken
> >
> >
> >
> > -----Original Message-----
> > From: Michael Rayner <mrayner51@yahoo.com>
> > Sent: Monday, 5 July 2010 10:35 AM
> > To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> > Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
> >
> >
> >
> > [The entire original message is not included]
> >
> >
> > ------------------------------------
> >
> > Yahoo! Groups Links
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>
>
>
>
> ------------------------------------
>
> Yahoo! Groups Links
>
>
>



------------------------------------

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37
On Jul 4, 2010, at 11:03 PM, "Mr Scott Pitcher" <spbconsulting@bigpond.com
> wrote:

> No Ken.
>
> But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.
>
> Skot


Skot,

Some vendors carry systems which allow checking oil level from the
rear flap. It's not much of a stretch to add oilfill if that was a
must have.

One system I am considering from Burley incorporates the engine mounts
with a high capacity steel sump with a dipsticl port to the rear. I
can't see it being too much trouble to add fitting there for the T3
oil filler pipe or even a custom job.

Have pics but I am travelling sans laptop and pics stored therein.


BenT
38
Thanks Ben.
 
Not sure if this applies to an ER27 2.7L 6cyl donk though - probably just those popular EJ25's or the EG33.
 
Skot
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 4:27 PM
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England

 

On Jul 4, 2010, at 11:03 PM, "Mr Scott Pitcher" <spbconsulting@bigpond.com
> wrote:

> No Ken.
>
> But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.
>
> Skot

Skot,

Some vendors carry systems which allow checking oil level from the
rear flap. It's not much of a stretch to add oilfill if that was a
must have.

One system I am considering from Burley incorporates the engine mounts
with a high capacity steel sump with a dipsticl port to the rear. I
can't see it being too much trouble to add fitting there for the T3
oil filler pipe or even a custom job.

Have pics but I am travelling sans laptop and pics stored therein.

BenT

39
> Declaring independence from Britain ?
>

Not yet!
40
Scott,
No indeed? I see. Bugger eh. Sounds to me like a big fat tick in favour of the WBX 2.1.
Haha ....... you subie guys are just sooooooooooooo masochistic! Then again, heh why not simply delegate the engine oil checking task to your beloved? Now that'd go down a real treat and I'd like to be a fly on the wall to see the furor  haha
 
I see you raised the horsepower and reliability myths to try and get yourself off the hook. Interesting.
 
On the reliability myth, I seem to recall it being reported here by an esteem member concerning his stock WBX 2.1. It was said it has never been opened up and has passed 400k clicks and still going strong. I believe his last longest trip was down and back to the recent DOTVW in Vic no problemo.
 
So Scott, that begs my next question ok. Does that 400k plus clicks unopened WBX 2.1 motor suggest it's reliable or unreliable?
Just reliable or unreliable will suffice.
 
Cheers.
Ken
 
ps., I'll get back to you on the horsepower myth thingy next time ok
Ken
 

 
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> From: spbconsulting@bigpond.com
> Date: Mon, 5 Jul 2010 16:03:23 +1000
> Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
> No Ken.
>
> But the horsepower & reliability makes up for that small item.
>
> Skot
>
> ----- Original Message -----
> From: "Ken Garratt " <unclekenz@hotmail.com>
> To: <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
> Sent: Monday, July 05, 2010 3:33 PM
> Subject: FW: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Stranded in New England
>
>
> > Scott,
> > Can you still open the small back flap and check/add/change the engine oil
> > and coolant?
> > Yes or no will suffice.
> > Cheers.
> > Ken
> >
> >

Find it on Domain.com.au Need a new place to live?