Hi Guys, have recently had my 1975 Kombie camper break down - ie blow smoke + irregular acceleration + a dull knocking sound coming from the engine. Had towed to a VW shop in nth Brisbane to have assessed and have stated that it is likley that the Big End Bearing has gone with some possible problem with one cylinder ie $3000!?.
I normally visit Erwin @ Phoenix enngineering in W'gabba to have engine work done however he is on a well earned holiday for several weeks. Can someone please offer advise on possible options/mechanics regarding ballpark expenditire if this may be the case, is this a life death situation for an engine .ie requiring a total overhaul? any other suggestions under the circumstances as is our only vehicle. Any suggestions/help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

First of all - hi Heathen

Not the best way to meet but anyway.....

IF you have a 1975 i am guessing it is a 2L Type 4.
$3k for a motor rebuild is in the ball park

Dull knocking sound bearings, smoke not good.
I doesnt sound like a $500 fix it job.

You only other option is picking up a 2nd hand motor and seeing how that goes.

Dave Becker had a gppd complete 2L for $800. Then you have to install it yourself or pay someone.

Just ring round.
Conti Engines like the Type 4 motors. Maybe give then a call

There was also another motor for sale somewhere here for $600 I think. It may not be a long term option, but it would probably get you going while you get the original motor done.

I've nearly finished rebuilding my 1800 out of my '75 kombi. So far its cost me:
$550 for reco heads (changeover from V-Force - $700 outright),
$670 for Kolbenschmidt pistons, cylinders, gudgeons and rings (Volkspower),
$825 for my short motor to be fully reco'd and balanced - including piston balancing (Volkspeed - good job too :thumb),
$220 for assorted bits and pieces including full gasket kit, new rear engine mounts, German pump reco kit, etc (VVDS).

That's $2265 with maybe another $100 in incidentals like oil, freight, locktite, etc.

I could have bought new heads at $790 each which would have bumped the price well over $3000, but if your heads are ok (probably a slim chance) then you could do it all for a lot cheaper.

Ps, Welcome to the forum.

Thanks guys, appreciate the advice. Always good to hear the dub community going stong in this type of forum, very informative.

Might try to get a second mechanic have a look and then bite the bullet with a 2nd hand engine if are no other options. Thanks again happy travels!

ps.. Any other suggestions on where to pick up a 2nd hand motor?

try Leons at musgrave rd Salisbury for engine and or mechanic
marc:alien

[size=4]Conti Engines have a good reputation.... they are in Queensland.... on the coast... I can't remember where.. You need to go where theyknow about type 4 Engines.... Best of Luck[/size]