I'm doing a bit of an overhaul on my '74 2.0l Kombi motor, and I remember last time I did one (a different car) everyone said to be sure to use German rings- not Brazillian or whatever. But I could only get Brazillian at the time. They've been in that car now for a few years without problems, but what's the general feeling ? Is it OK to use them, or should I chase up orifginals ? Are originals even available ?
What about bearings, seals and gaskets. Have any of you overhaulers had any problems with aftermaket bits ?
Well, can't comment too much from experience.
Most re-builders use Mahle P&C sets which all come from Brazil. Haven't heard any bad reports about them, or beetle ones for that matter.
I think it's more a matter of sticking with a good brand.
Bearings are a case of get what you can find!!!
German stuff is out there though. I managed to get K&S over size pistons (bore out original barrels) for my re-build.
Andy :thumb
Your main problem will be finding someone who actually has the correct size bearings you need. Check with a few shops before you have the crank reground as you may have to go several sizes down to get bearing that will fit.
You should fit a complete Piston and Barrel set not just rings as this will creat more trouble than its worth.
Thanks Andy,
What about gaskets: are there any sets that are more complete or otherwise more or less satisfactory ? Where did the o.s. pistons come from ? I thought you could only get pistons/barrel sets.
Nitram
O.S. pistons took a lot of chasing around to find, will have to look back for where they actually came from! I don't know if Mahle makes them as I never chased them.
Rings sets should also be available on there own, (I never chased them) just make sure skirt clearence and ring groves are in spec before you consider that option.
Gaskets I got Elring kit (German). It is only missing crank shaft seals (front & rear), has most other seals, including inlet & exhaust gaskets. I never compared to other brands though.
:thumb
I used a German gasket kit when rebuilding our 1800 and German rings. It seems OK. I did not do the bottom end.
:thumb
