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  #1  
Old 08-18-2008, 04:15 AM
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plantchick plantchick is offline
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VW's and Subaru's

A parts guy mentioned some kind of connection between the VW guys up here and Subaru's. Cam made a comment in another thread about off-road racers loving our engines and that's what he said these guys do. Even suggested I go to one of their mechanics, if I was having trouble finding one.

I was wondering if it was common. Since I got my girl I keep being told that the engines are a pain to work on, but that they're solid as and will go forever.

Tania.
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No plants = no life on earth - so go forth and plant green things!
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  #2  
Old 08-18-2008, 05:02 AM
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McTaff McTaff is offline
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Re: VW's and Subaru's

Quote:
Originally Posted by plantchick View Post
A parts guy mentioned some kind of connection between the VW guys up here and Subaru's. <snip>
Even suggested I go to one of their mechanics, if I was having trouble finding one.

The flat-cylinder configuration is the only real common denominator.

However, there is quite a lot of success transplanting Subaru engines into VW vehicles (EJ20 into the Beetle, and EG33 into just about every van they have every made), and so some VW mechanics have some familiarity with the engines.

Depending on how much you really love your car. If you're like me, I only ever use the same Subaru Dealer for servicing - even though I live in a different state.

There is no reason why you can't take your car to any mechanic, it's simply a matter of trust and exposure. Mechanics exposed to the vehicles will pick up issues that an inexperienced grunt would miss.

Just comes down to how much you are willing to pay

Quote:
Originally Posted by plantchick View Post
Since I got my girl I keep being told that the engines are a pain to work on, but that they're solid as and will go forever.

Tania.
They are actually no more difficult than any other engine; in fact they are quite easy until they need head work.

Generally, transverse mounted small car engines are a lot harder to work on - changing a timing belt can require removing engine mounts and a jack or hoist. However the Subaru EG33 is more or less a V6 engine, it's just that the cylinder heads are pushed right down inside the engine bay. Working on the various bits and pieces is easy as pie - they are all sitting on top!

These engines, provided you keep the servicing up to them, are sound. I take usual precautions when driving (When I start car, let it warm up before driving off. Take it nice and easy for the first five minutes and last few minutes. Leave it running for a few minutes before turning it off). They might not make a whole difference, but in the long run I sleep easier! I have had 250,000km from mine, and I foolishly thrashed it and used it for an everyday driver for many years until I grew up a bit, yet this engine still kept going without nary a complaint.

You have a lovely vehicle. Don't skimp on servicing, and it'll do it's best for you.
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'07 Outback (Legacy) Pearl White > 3.0R Premium, stock (50,000km, Wifes daily driver. Owned from new) Not For Sale
'92 SVX Black on Pearl White > 6spd, DCCD on the way. (260,000km, My daily driver, 2 previous owners) Not For Sale
'93 SVX Black on Charcoal > Aftermarket rims.(250,000 km, Dad's daily driver, unknown owners) Not For Sale
'93 SVX Black on Burgundy > Completely stock, under preservation, treated like a princess. (55,000km, 1 previous owner) Not For Sale
'92 SVX Black on Burgundy > Completely stock, under preservation, treated like a princess. (144,000km, 2 previous owners) Not For Sale
Wife, Red Hot when riled > Treated like a princess. Minister For Finance, Domestic Affairs and Diplomatic Relations. Definitely Not For Sale
My Wanted List: http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/show...178#post632178

Last edited by McTaff; 08-18-2008 at 05:21 AM. Reason: Because I need to work on my English.
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  #3  
Old 08-18-2008, 05:39 AM
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BRADY BRADY is offline
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Wink Re: VW's and Subaru's

Hey there Plantchick,

As a new owner myself that has experienced a few problems, I have found that the 'layman' advice on SVX can be misleading and over priced.

This forum is a blessing, where we can get HONEST advice from fellow enthusiasts.

During my travels around the Hunter Valley NSW, getting numerous transmission 'specialists' to look at my problem I found that many see the SVX as a blank cheque, much like an ultra rare exotic like DeLorean or Lambo.

It is an exotic, but it is also a SUBARU!! That is the beauty if the SVX, it is an ultra rare exotic built by a mass production corporation!

Try to find out if Townsville Subaru out-source any of their work to local mechanics, then go direct to them!

I lucked out and found the guy that Regal Subaru Newcastle use for their transmission work.

Plus, keep asking questions here!!
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  #4  
Old 08-18-2008, 06:30 AM
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plantchick plantchick is offline
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Re: VW's and Subaru's

Hi McTaff - love your avatar.

Quote:
Originally Posted by McTaff View Post
However, there is quite a lot of success transplanting Subaru engines into VW vehicles (EJ20 into the Beetle, and EG33 into just about every van they have every made)
So it is widespread then. Apparently there's a big VW/Dune buggy fraternity up here. Can I ask why its successful? Why Subaru's?

Quote:
Depending on how much you really love your car. If you're like me, I only ever use the same Subaru Dealer for servicing - even though I live in a different state.
I've utterly fallen for my girl, but that's keen.

Quote:
There is no reason why you can't take your car to any mechanic, it's simply a matter of trust and exposure. Mechanics exposed to the vehicles will pick up issues that an inexperienced grunt would miss.
I thought I'd found a good mechanic, well he is - at least he has a good reputation around town - but I've just found out he missed pump problems and a hole in the power steering pressure hose on pre-inspection, so the trust thing is kinda shaky. I've been doing the rounds about town and asking everyone I talk to for recommendations and I think its coming together.

Quote:
These engines, provided you keep the servicing up to them, are sound. I take usual precautions when driving (When I start car, let it warm up before driving off. Take it nice and easy for the first five minutes and last few minutes. Leave it running for a few minutes before turning it off). They might not make a whole difference, but in the long run I sleep easier! I have had 250,000km from mine, and I foolishly thrashed it and used it for an everyday driver for many years until I grew up a bit, yet this engine still kept going without nary a complaint.
I've decided she's a bit like me - not a morning person. So she gets a bit of wake up time and she's perfectly happy. I've picked up the drive in 3rd tip from here and pretty much have myself trained.

*grin* I guess I haven't grown up - 'cause she IS my daily driver. I went for a drive to a nearby mountain range last week, but haven't even come close to pushing her. I want to make sure she's sound and has the work she needs. Even then I'm not the thrashing type, but I am looking forward to finding out what's there. Trans service, steering sorted and then off I go.

Quote:
You have a lovely vehicle. Don't skimp on servicing, and it'll do it's best for you.
Gorgeous. I walk up to her and grin... think "she's mine!" in a kind of disbelief. What you've said is exactly why I made the decision to buy her - if I look after her, she'll look after me.

Thanks, McTaff.

Tania.
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1992 Onyx SVX 184,500kms
Now with new and improved no leak steering!

No plants = no life on earth - so go forth and plant green things!
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  #5  
Old 08-18-2008, 06:54 AM
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plantchick plantchick is offline
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Re: VW's and Subaru's

Hey there Beatles Man,

I can't quote any of your reply - apparently McTaff rules at the moment and even this straight reply wanted to quote him

I honestly wouldn't have bought the SVX if I hadn't found the forums. I read of the trans, bearing, brake issues and they seemed a bit scary. Then the rarity of it concerned me - how I'd find parts, someone who knew how to work on her, etc. Then I found this place and it was a no-brainer. I said to a guy at an autoparts shop yesterday (can't seem to keep away from them lately!) that between them the guys here must have thousands of hours of experience.

I feel like I'm asking so many questions I must be driving people nuts.

I don't know what it is about this car, but she makes me want to know everything I can about her. I WANT to learn and be able to do minor work on her.

Know what you mean about the 'blank cheque' thing - I've come accross it a couple of times already, but mostly I've been lucky and am finding good people. You know, someone refers you to someone who refers you to someone else, you ask each who's good and the same names start coming up. The dealership here are... not helpful. Pretty disinterested, which I find bizarre. They don't have a good reputation, either and everyone warns me away from them.

Buuuuut.... wish there was an icon for a happy dance.... like you, I've lucked out. I found the CV/steering guy most of the mechanics source their work to and he put me onto a guy who rebuilds SVX's for dune buggy racing and owns one, too! So he has the diagnostics, a dynometre(sp?). Not exactly sure what that is, but know it measures performance and that it's 'a good thing'.

Parts sourcing might be sorted, too! Will hopefully speak with him tomorrow.

ciao,
Tania.
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1992 Onyx SVX 184,500kms
Now with new and improved no leak steering!

No plants = no life on earth - so go forth and plant green things!
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  #6  
Old 08-18-2008, 03:19 PM
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Re: VW's and Subaru's

Hey there Tania,

I just found this thread and was going to recommend you talk to Vern but I see you've found him allready. He's a factory trained Subaru mechanic that went out on his own. Nice bloke too.
The twin turbo, twin intercooled SVX motor in his offroad buggy is a work of inspiration.
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  #7  
Old 08-18-2008, 04:42 PM
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plantchick plantchick is offline
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More happy dancing

Hi Brumbyrunner,

Does that mean you're up here too?!?
Thanks for the info - recommendations are good, confirmations are great!.

Vern just returned my call and I told him that someone had said his buggy is a work of inspiration. I could hear the grin in his face when he replied "Yup, it is".

Thanks again,
Tania.
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1992 Onyx SVX 184,500kms
Now with new and improved no leak steering!

No plants = no life on earth - so go forth and plant green things!
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  #8  
Old 08-18-2008, 05:00 PM
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plantchick plantchick is offline
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Re: VW's and Subaru's

Thanks everyone for the good info and suggestions.

I'm still interested in the VW/Subaru connection - why Subaru's and why do the VW'ers want to mod their cars?

Tania.
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1992 Onyx SVX 184,500kms
Now with new and improved no leak steering!

No plants = no life on earth - so go forth and plant green things!
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  #9  
Old 08-19-2008, 03:15 AM
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McTaff McTaff is offline
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Re: VW's and Subaru's

Quote:
Originally Posted by plantchick View Post
I'm still interested in the VW/Subaru connection - why Subaru's
The flat cylinder configuration being common means the engine is roughly the same size and shape. Square pegs for square holes, and so on. Due to the simplicity of the VW's, it is easy to convert a lot of the electrics and bits and pieces to work off the new engine (generally most of the components are already from the new engine).

The only other alternative flat-4 engines would be those from motorbikes such as the Honda Goldwing or some BMW bikes, or light aircraft. Given the nature of bike engines being lower in torque, and light aircraft using different fuels... Subaru is the best (or at least most logical) answer.

Quote:
Originally Posted by plantchick View Post
why do the VW'ers want to mod their cars?
That's easy: A cheap, tough car, they have a unique look, and they have a history of offroad (Baja Bugs, for instance) competitiveness and modification enthusiasts.

In the search for more power for your project car, or a new engine for a car which has begun to suffer from age, options are limited.
Seeing as most VW's that use this type of engine have ceased production the only options really are getting an original engine block from somewhere and completely rebuilding it or finding another engine to go in the same hole. In some cases, the easier (and cheaper) option is finding a modern replacement.

Some people want to 'power up' their VeeDubs a little. Then again, folks just like seeing how much more awesomeness they can pack into their car.

A popular mod has been SVX engines into VW vans (Both into the Caravelle and the Kombi/Microbus), and there has been success in Impreza engines (some WRX engines!) going into Beetles. Generally they are the ones used in rallies, hill climbs, and so on.

-

For you, however, if you're not having any luck in some areas, you can always come here. Many problems (as you may have found out) have occurred before.
(If you ever head to Sydney, my mantra is well known here - talk to Penrith Subaru. They are, in my mind, the best. I have solid trust and they have looked after me. Great service and good staff to boot.)
__________________
'07 Outback (Legacy) Pearl White > 3.0R Premium, stock (50,000km, Wifes daily driver. Owned from new) Not For Sale
'92 SVX Black on Pearl White > 6spd, DCCD on the way. (260,000km, My daily driver, 2 previous owners) Not For Sale
'93 SVX Black on Charcoal > Aftermarket rims.(250,000 km, Dad's daily driver, unknown owners) Not For Sale
'93 SVX Black on Burgundy > Completely stock, under preservation, treated like a princess. (55,000km, 1 previous owner) Not For Sale
'92 SVX Black on Burgundy > Completely stock, under preservation, treated like a princess. (144,000km, 2 previous owners) Not For Sale
Wife, Red Hot when riled > Treated like a princess. Minister For Finance, Domestic Affairs and Diplomatic Relations. Definitely Not For Sale
My Wanted List: http://www.subaru-svx.net/forum/show...178#post632178

Last edited by McTaff; 08-19-2008 at 03:26 AM. Reason: Added text
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  #10  
Old 08-19-2008, 08:07 AM
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plantchick plantchick is offline
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Re: VW's and Subaru's

Quote:
Originally Posted by McTaff View Post
The flat cylinder configuration being common means the engine is roughly the same size and shape. Square pegs for square holes, and so on.<snip>

The only other alternative flat-4 engines would be those from motorbikes such as the Honda Goldwing or some BMW bikes, or light aircraft. Given the nature of bike engines being lower in torque, and light aircraft using different fuels... Subaru is the best (or at least most logical) answer.
Now I get why the engine, ta. The mechanics/physics of torque I'm still wrapping my head around (seems to be an important thing around here) but from the little I do get, a lower torque (motorbike) would mean not enough force to get the car moving - or at least moving fast enough. Hence why its the engines of heavier bikes that could work.

Quote:
That's easy: A cheap, tough car, they have a unique look, and they have a history of offroad (Baja Bugs, for instance) competitiveness and modification enthusiasts.
There is something cool about them. I remeber 'beetle spotting' as a kid.

The engine explanation you followed with makes perfect sense, now I think about it. I'd thought it was solely about performance and the limited options thing hadn't occurred to me. I bought the SVX because I had to take my old girl off the road ('82 Benz). The engine needed rebuilding and it just wasn't practical. If an enthusiast also has the money to be able to, yup, I get it.

"awsomeness"... what a great expression. Gave me a chuckle.

-
Quote:
(If you ever head to Sydney, my mantra is well known here - talk to Penrith Subaru. They are, in my mind, the best. I have solid trust and they have looked after me. Great service and good staff to boot.)
*grin* yup, even I know your mantra, from reading past posts. I moved up here from Sydney to study, so my girl will end up back there, in time.

McTaff that's a really well explained answer. Thanks for taking the time.

Tania.
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No plants = no life on earth - so go forth and plant green things!
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