Apologies for the lack of technical specifics. I'm not up with the jargon as yet.

I have recently got another kombi (1973) that has a 1700 engine. The engine is leaking a bit of oil, and is suffering from 'loose heads'. I've been advised that the (aluminum) gasket needs to be replaced as a minimum.

If it turns out to be more, can any provide some advise / comment on:

- how can i determine that the engine is the original for the chassis?
- if original, is it worth keeping the match between engine & chassis numbers?
- how easy is it to get parts for a 1700 engine - like new heads etc?
- can I bore-out a 1700 to an 1800?

All opinions & comments gretefully received!

The best thing about the 1700 is that the rocker arms take smaller adjusting screws, which means you can use swivel feet type adjusters.

The 1700 has a bore of 90mm, 1800, 93mm and 2litre, 94mm. The 1700 and 1800 share a stroke of 66mm and the 2litre has a stroke of 71mm. The largest aftermarket off the shelf cylinders available for a type 4 motor are 103mm. There are stroker cranks available.

The Porsche 914 2litre has the best stock heads that bolt on to this engine. Followed by the vw 1800.

Hope this helps in some way.