Hloni wrote:Hendricks, any specific reason why do you want to go watercooled? I know you currently doing your homework, but it would be great to hear the reasoning of various folk of why they went watercooled.
![Hang Loose :hangloose:](./images/smilies/action-smiley-035.gif)
Hloni,
Good question.
Others might say "go buy a modern caravelle or Vito" - I don't have that kind of money and also love the old kombis... My first task is to get the bodywork back to original (replacing nose skin, parts of the outriggers, engine metal work, and some body work) as I really love the Bay window look. If it had a working engine, I wouldn't even consider watercooled untill the aircooled broke. Also I don't like the radiator on the nose look.
watercooled:
- I can get a running Golf engine for under R4k and if it breakes, I can get parts for it anywhere in SA, Should it break down.
- I intend to use my bus for long trips and hauling stuff around town on a regular basis.
- I dont want to race but do enjoy a little power, we often go camping, so a trailer goes along.
- kombi gearbox, brakes can be used as is
- Fuel consumption will probable be better
aircooled
- The kombi was designed to be aircooled (originally)
- A running (but not overhaulled) 2L costs about R7000
- Parts are not available at your local Midas never mind small towns
- to overhaul a 2l would cost about R4 - 7k depending on what needs to be done (don't quote me here)
No matter what engine I put in it'll be a challenge as this is my first van I work on.
If I ever get a german split bus, I would stick to aircooled as it will be a weekend/show car and not a long distance / holiday car.
That's what I'm thinking at the moment.