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914World.com _ 914World Garage _ Put a 2.7 6 into a 72 Bay Window Bus?
Posted by: VaccaRabite Nov 3 2022, 12:31 PM
So, Lets say you had a 2.7L 6 with complete and intact CIS, good compression, taken out of a running car that wanted to go electric.
And lets say you had a Bay Window Westy.
And, for the sake of argument - what do you think it would take to put them together.
I've got the 915 and the engine and a bus that's about 70% through its restoration.
Current plan is to get the bus running on its existing 1.7 first.
Then add the engine to the bus transmission and drive it like that.
And eventually add the 915 into the mix which may or may not require a bunch of changes.
I know that this is a thing that has been done. Anyone done it?
For the first stage - I'd need an oil tank (maybe - may have one), and would need tins. A different flywheel and maybe a different clutch - may be able to take these off the bus. I'll need exhaust. Heat isn't a concern - I'm using a diesel heater for heat so I am not worried about heat exchangers.
I suppose another option might be to put it into a dune buggy... but no. The bus will like it a good bit more.
Zach
Posted by: willieg Nov 3 2022, 12:38 PM
Put a Subie in the bus. https://www.buslab.com/
No affiliation but they do a lot of conversions.
Posted by: bdstone914 Nov 3 2022, 12:46 PM
I know a guy that but a 3.2 in a bus with Porsche brakes all around and a 915. Blue bus with big flanes down the side. Do it. They need power.
Posted by: GregAmy Nov 3 2022, 12:46 PM
There's a couple of Type 2s with Porsche /6 in 'em up here in the Northeast, I see them at car shows. Put I don't ahve any contact info for you...
I'd say start hitting blogs and forums, see what you find.
But...you sure you want to do that to a Westy? I mean, it would certainly make it more usable...actually, now that I typed that, yeah, I'd do it.
Posted by: kerensky Nov 3 2022, 12:58 PM
Horrible idea, you need to toss it all out. Dispose of the 2.7 at this address ... 
Just kidding, of course. I've seen a few of the older Type 2s (21 or 23 window type) with this swap, but not the later Westys. Others have already mentioned examples they are aware of. Makes for a cool project in my opinion.
Posted by: Cairo94507 Nov 3 2022, 02:30 PM
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=1435 - That engine would go much better in a deserving 914. You really need a 3.2 for the bus. I happen to know of one looking for a motor to make the jump to 6 power.
Posted by: porschetub Nov 3 2022, 02:32 PM
So, Lets say you had a 2.7L 6 with complete and intact CIS, good compression, taken out of a running car that wanted to go electric.
And lets say you had a Bay Window Westy.
And, for the sake of argument - what do you think it would take to put them together.
I've got the 915 and the engine and a bus that's about 70% through its restoration.
Current plan is to get the bus running on its existing 1.7 first.
Then add the engine to the bus transmission and drive it like that.
And eventually add the 915 into the mix which may or may not require a bunch of changes.
I know that this is a thing that has been done. Anyone done it?
For the first stage - I'd need an oil tank (maybe - may have one), and would need tins. A different flywheel and maybe a different clutch - may be able to take these off the bus. I'll need exhaust. Heat isn't a concern - I'm using a diesel heater for heat so I am not worried about heat exchangers.
I suppose another option might be to put it into a dune buggy... but no. The bus will like it a good bit more.
Zach
The engine for my "6" conversion came out of a 74 bus,used same original gearbox with a custom made adaptor flywheel running 200mm beetle HD clutch which was nicely made...still have the flywheel.
I had no history on the motor when I purchased it but it turned out to be in great condition,the van was too rusty to pass 6 month road worthy and the body was scrapped.
I did find out it went pretty well but the gearing wasn't great and due to this and the fact that these vans are rather heavy it was very thirsty ,this wasn't helped by messed up carbs.
Isn't the 915 box pretty long compared to the stock IRS box and the 2.7 is longer than the T4 (i think) ,wonder if you need to get the motor and box as far forward as possible without driveshaft angle issues ? .
Cool project if it pans out
.
Posted by: Bullethead Nov 3 2022, 02:34 PM
By all means, do it! Here's a single cab built by 901 Shop awhile back looking a bit scruffy, but it's really spiffy now. Note the fifth wheel hitch.
And surely everyone has seen the Race Taxi built in Switzerland: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=powVngJ-Ljc
Posted by: kerensky Nov 3 2022, 02:35 PM
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=1435 - That engine would go much better in a deserving 914. You really need a 3.2 for the bus. I happen to know of one looking for a motor to make the jump to 6 power.
I dunno that I'd want to drive a bus with much more than 100 horses. Those things don't exactly handle or stop like our 'teeners.
Although I do recall seeing an old 21 window in Hot VWs magazine once where the owner had not only swapped in a Porsche 6 but had basically rebuilt the entire suspension and braking systems with 911 components (or comparable where the 911 stuff just didn't make sense.) *That* looked like a fun ride...
Posted by: porschetub Nov 3 2022, 03:09 PM
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=1435 - That engine would go much better in a deserving 914. You really need a 3.2 for the bus. I happen to know of one looking for a motor to make the jump to 6 power.
I dunno that I'd want to drive a bus with much more than 100 horses. Those things don't exactly handle or stop like our 'teeners.
Although I do recall seeing an old 21 window in Hot VWs magazine once where the owner had not only swapped in a Porsche 6 but had basically rebuilt the entire suspension and braking systems with 911 components (or comparable where the 911 stuff just didn't make sense.) *That* looked like a fun ride...
The bay window busses handle pretty well for what they are with decent shocks and lowered a little they aren't too bad ,I had widened steel wheels on my last one with wider tyres and that made a real differance.
Issue then would be brakes with such an increase in power over the T4 motor,seem to remember 944 brakes are used in this application.
Posted by: ClayPerrine Nov 3 2022, 03:35 PM
Use a complete 944 turbo rear suspension. It will bolt on, and you get turbo brakes.
Fronts would have to be custom using 944 turbo rotors.
Clay
Posted by: GregAmy Nov 3 2022, 04:07 PM
Use a complete 944 turbo rear suspension. It will bolt on, and you get turbo brakes.
Wait....wuuuuuuut?
<goes looking for Westy sale listings>
Posted by: JamesM Nov 3 2022, 05:11 PM
Ah! So you are the one that bought that motor. Probably did me a favor, if it sat around much longer it might have wound up in my 914.
So, Lets say you had a 2.7L 6 with complete and intact CIS, good compression, taken out of a running car that wanted to go electric.
And lets say you had a Bay Window Westy.
And, for the sake of argument - what do you think it would take to put them together.
I've got the 915 and the engine and a bus that's about 70% through its restoration.
Current plan is to get the bus running on its existing 1.7 first.
Then add the engine to the bus transmission and drive it like that.
And eventually add the 915 into the mix which may or may not require a bunch of changes.
I know that this is a thing that has been done. Anyone done it?
For the first stage - I'd need an oil tank (maybe - may have one), and would need tins. A different flywheel and maybe a different clutch - may be able to take these off the bus. I'll need exhaust. Heat isn't a concern - I'm using a diesel heater for heat so I am not worried about heat exchangers.
I suppose another option might be to put it into a dune buggy... but no. The bus will like it a good bit more.
Zach
Posted by: mepstein Nov 3 2022, 05:20 PM
Over the years, I’ve seen threads in the samba and pelican on similar conversions. Marty at MSDS used to sell a kit to do the conversion. I would reach out to him with questions. He always seems helpful to the 914 crowd.
Posted by: Steve Nov 3 2022, 05:46 PM
There was a nice bus with a 3.2 at a bug show for $20k. Didn’t have the money back then. He had a skull and crossbones on the speedometer that said do not take over 80 mph. He said the aerodynamics are dangerous above 80 and he almost crashed.
Posted by: r_towle Nov 3 2022, 07:37 PM
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=59j-a86YU9M
Posted by: r_towle Nov 3 2022, 07:37 PM
I really wish Zach lived much closer to me.
We would build some weird stuff
Posted by: jhynesrockmtn Nov 3 2022, 07:44 PM
I seem to recall John Walker had a bus he stuffed a 911 motor in but my fuzzy brain may have made that up. I think it is a cool idea!
Posted by: sixnotfour Nov 4 2022, 02:46 AM
I seem to recall John Walker had a bus he stuffed a 911 motor in but my fuzzy brain may have made that up. I think it is a cool idea!
Denny Akers has a Turbo -6 in his.. forever..
Posted by: JmuRiz Nov 4 2022, 07:35 AM
I have no advice, other than it will be super cool when finished.
You'll need an oil tank and cooler, but if you make your own lines it shouldn't be terrible.
If you want another option, check with NoRustScott about his Subi-van....it's silly 
Posted by: ClayPerrine Nov 4 2022, 01:23 PM
Now if you were really cool, hip and happening, you would put a Tesla Model S drivetrain under the rear of the VW Bus, and build out a box that fits under the whole floor to hold the batteries.
It would accelerate SHOCKINGLY well!
Posted by: kerensky Nov 4 2022, 01:32 PM
Now if you were really cool, hip and happening, you would put a Tesla Model S drivetrain under the rear of the VW Bus, and build out a box that fits under the whole floor to hold the batteries.
It would accelerate SHOCKINGLY well!
Yes, because *everyone* on this site is here to look "really cool, hip, and happening", right?
Posted by: nditiz1 Nov 4 2022, 04:01 PM
It's almost like the newer westy's.
In the event this project does not come together I'll be there with my truck to take that 2.7 off your hands :-D
Posted by: r_towle Nov 4 2022, 05:19 PM
Now if you were really cool, hip and happening, you would put a Tesla Model S drivetrain under the rear of the VW Bus, and build out a box that fits under the whole floor to hold the batteries.
It would accelerate SHOCKINGLY well!
I am tapping my fingers on the counter waiting to put my deposit down and order a brand new ID Buzz
Posted by: mb911 Nov 5 2022, 08:26 AM
Zach,
I think it would be really cool. I have nothing to offer from advice but it’s really cool
Posted by: VaccaRabite Nov 7 2022, 10:28 AM
I really wish Zach lived much closer to me.
We would build some weird stuff
We really would!
Posted by: VaccaRabite Nov 7 2022, 10:30 AM
Ah! So you are the one that bought that motor. Probably did me a favor, if it sat around much longer it might have wound up in my 914.
I could not turn it down. Though it had put the build of my bus on its nose somewhat.
Zach
Posted by: VaccaRabite Nov 7 2022, 10:32 AM
I have no advice, other than it will be super cool when finished.
You'll need an oil tank and cooler, but if you make your own lines it shouldn't be terrible.
If you want another option, check with NoRustScott about his Subi-van....it's silly
I'm an advocate of putting Subi's into busses. Have been for years.
But I want this bus to stay aircooled.
Zach
Posted by: JmuRiz Nov 7 2022, 11:23 AM
Posted by: GregAmy Nov 11 2022, 04:00 PM
Ever heard of the Porsche T3 B32? Me neither. Seven built for support Porsche's 959 Dakar Rally efforts.
https://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/15/did-you-know-porsche-built-a-vw-t3-vanagon-based-b32/
https://www.autoevolution.com/news/based-on-vws-t3-transporter-the-b32-was-actually-an-outrageous-sleeper-built-by-porsche-201540.html
Posted by: JamesM Nov 11 2022, 05:05 PM
Ever heard of the Porsche T3 B32? Me neither. Seven built for support Porsche's 959 Dakar Rally efforts.
https://www.autoblog.com/2008/04/15/did-you-know-porsche-built-a-vw-t3-vanagon-based-b32/
https://www.autoevolution.com/news/based-on-vws-t3-transporter-the-b32-was-actually-an-outrageous-sleeper-built-by-porsche-201540.html
If we are talking Vanagons, there was also the VW/Oettinger 3.2 flat 6 WBX motor.
Basically a 2.1 WBX with 2 extra cylinders
Posted by: JamesM Nov 11 2022, 05:22 PM
Ah! So you are the one that bought that motor. Probably did me a favor, if it sat around much longer it might have wound up in my 914.
I could not turn it down. Though it had put the build of my bus on its nose somewhat.
Zach
I was on the fence, but in no hurry to dive into something like that atm with all the other projects I have going on. The car it would have gone in is currently cut to bits at PMB getting rust repair done AND I just bought a new set of Tangerine headers for it that would never get installed if I change direction on the motor. Plus with the current motor being ~130-140ish hp, not sure if I would have felt it was all worth it in the end only gaining ~30-40hp as it sits. The idea of going though a motor that clean to upgrade it almost seemed wasteful... I mean that thing looked almost brand new.
Maybe someday, 2.7 is my motor of choice for a 914.
Glad it found a good home.
Posted by: r_towle Nov 11 2022, 07:01 PM
Yah, like Zach….I bought a 3.0 liter with no destination in mind.
Once I rebuild it…the idea will come to me.
Posted by: blabla914 Nov 11 2022, 08:29 PM
If I hit the power ball B32 replica is on the short list
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Nov 12 2022, 12:28 PM
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=10825 Found an MSDS Vanagon ('80-92) 3.2L kit pic: 4wd/Syncro and 2wd d-i-y kits were offered.
I shipped the last kit off in '01 to a client in BC,Canada.
Never mfg the earlier bus kits (not intererchangeable)...but this pic illustrates the major components made to fit the Vanagon platform.
Not in pic; KEP clutch disc, flywheel, optional components ;
P/S kit, Fr oil cooler + T'stat kit, 2 or 4 tip muffler styles, front brush guard, oil tank rock shield, front winch (Ramsey) mount plate. Very clean install and No high spots in the rear cargo/cushion area.
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Nov 12 2022, 12:34 PM
Let's go for a ride in the dirt...in the dry-bed flood control basin over at Legg Lake, South El Monte, CA.
4wd Syncro viscous coupling in effect, and 3.2L party in the back 
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Nov 12 2022, 05:36 PM
Another pic
Attached thumbnail(s)
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Nov 12 2022, 05:41 PM
Under the bonnet 
Posted by: JmuRiz Nov 12 2022, 08:00 PM
If I hit the power ball B32 replica is on the short list
Those were cool, and any of those Oettinger engines are cool (the one pictured and the 16v conversions for gti/‘Rocco back in the day.
Posted by: erwan914 Mar 16 2023, 02:17 AM
my BUS t2B
Attached thumbnail(s)
Posted by: VaccaRabite Mar 16 2023, 05:43 AM
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=14834
WE NEED TO TALK!
Looks like yours is about a year ahead of mine in the process (at least it was in those pics).
What did you do for tins? Did you have issues with engine height? My plan for using the stock CIS may be complicated by not having a high enough engine bay. Bus trans or 915?
Zach
Posted by: erwan914 Mar 16 2023, 06:43 AM
yes
gearbox 915 LSD
Attached thumbnail(s)
Posted by: Root_Werks Mar 16 2023, 09:50 AM
I have no advice, other than it will be super cool when finished.
You'll need an oil tank and cooler, but if you make your own lines it shouldn't be terrible.
If you want another option, check with NoRustScott about his Subi-van....it's silly
I'm an advocate of putting Subi's into busses. Have been for years.
But I want this bus to stay aircooled.
Zach
I was going to ask what year the Westy was.
If it's aircooled, leave it that way.
I say go for it. There should be plenty of resources, a fun project and will produce a unique Westy when done.
Then you can sell it to me.
Posted by: RARE 6 Mar 16 2023, 10:10 AM
I have memories of the late Bill Randle, ex Porsche racer and Denver shop owner, flat towing his 356 to the Fiesta del Porsche in Santa Fe behind his Westy with a 6-cylinder conversion. Sometime in the 1980s. Keeping up with the traffic on I-25 south of Pueblo.
Posted by: 914Toy Mar 16 2023, 10:14 AM
I have memories of the late Bill Randle, ex Porsche racer and Denver shop owner, flat towing his 356 to the Fiesta del Porsche in Santa Fe behind his Westy with a 6-cylinder conversion. Sometime in the 1980s. Keeping up with the traffic on I-25 south of Pueblo.
Lived in Denver at the time, and remember his Westy 6, and used his shop as my service/repair shop.
Posted by: gandalf_025 Mar 16 2023, 11:19 AM
There was a guy at the shop i hung out at that had a bus with a 2.7 in it..
Was his daily driver.
Another guy put an early 2.0, 911 engine in the back of a bug..
Used the bug 4 speed too..
But the craziest one was an early Corvair that had a 327 hanging out the back.
As i remember, he had to have the 327 turn backwards so he put a boat cam in it..
Damn thing did great wheel stands..
Posted by: ClayPerrine Mar 16 2023, 12:09 PM
But the craziest one was an early Corvair that had a 327 hanging out the back.
As i remember, he had to have the 327 turn backwards so he put a boat cam in it..
Damn thing did great wheel stands..
Had a friend in High School that had a Corvair with a 350 Chevy in it. It was mid engined. If you combine the Corvair 4 speed with a saginaw 4 speed you can put together a mid engine trans. The only fab was to make engine and trans mounts for the chassis.
The engine was hidden behind a fake rear seat and the radiator was in the old engine compartment. It was an incredible sleeper.
Posted by: fixer34 Mar 16 2023, 01:10 PM
But the craziest one was an early Corvair that had a 327 hanging out the back.
As i remember, he had to have the 327 turn backwards so he put a boat cam in it..
Damn thing did great wheel stands..
Had a friend in High School that had a Corvair with a 350 Chevy in it. It was mid engined. If you combine the Corvair 4 speed with a saginaw 4 speed you can put together a mid engine trans. The only fab was to make engine and trans mounts for the chassis.
The engine was hidden behind a fake rear seat and the radiator was in the old engine compartment. It was an incredible sleeper.
Clay, by any weird chance would that have been in the Dallas area in the late 70's? Your friend an instructor at the IBM training center on Stemmons? Corvair was black?
Posted by: gandalf_025 Mar 16 2023, 01:23 PM
There were a couple of companies that had kits to put a V8 in the back seat
area of later Corvairs. You could buy the entire kit or any parts you wanted.
The weak link was the input shaft that was specially made to enter the transmission from the wrong end. The transaxle was mounted in the stock position and turned backwards.
people usually had trouble getting the run out of the input shaft low enough that it wouldn't self destruct in time. Also the reason Posi Corvair transaxles were in such high demand.
There was also a GM Engineer that made a kit to put an entire Toronado drivetrain mid engine in a corvair. That kit allowed the use of the rear seats too.
It was pretty bullet proof because the engine transmission were built to work together.
It was an automatic though..
The guy I knew had an early Corvair... 1963 and he hung the engine out the back after figuring out a bell housing and turning the engine backwards. It handled terribly and was a handful to drive.. But it did stand up easy..
Posted by: Bartlett 914 Mar 16 2023, 03:49 PM
I have a 91 Westy with a Suby 2.5. The power is great but not too much. Gearing is great in the city but I need a higher gear, 4K at 70mph. This is a water cooled bus. A suby is not a great fit for the older bus. I think this would make a great conversion. With the lower HP motor, these vans had trouble getting out of their own way. Maybe the 6 is overkill but I am sure you will love it. I hope you keep posting your conversion process here!
Posted by: porschetub Mar 16 2023, 05:44 PM
I have a 91 Westy with a Suby 2.5. The power is great but not too much. Gearing is great in the city but I need a higher gear, 4K at 70mph. This is a water cooled bus. A suby is not a great fit for the older bus. I think this would make a great conversion. With the lower HP motor, these vans had trouble getting out of their own way. Maybe the 6 is overkill but I am sure you will love it. I hope you keep posting your conversion process here!
one thing I think about is gearing of what ever porsche trans used due to the weight difference ,wonder if porsche addressed that in any way ?.Posted by: ClayPerrine Mar 17 2023, 06:57 AM
But the craziest one was an early Corvair that had a 327 hanging out the back.
As i remember, he had to have the 327 turn backwards so he put a boat cam in it..
Damn thing did great wheel stands..
Had a friend in High School that had a Corvair with a 350 Chevy in it. It was mid engined. If you combine the Corvair 4 speed with a saginaw 4 speed you can put together a mid engine trans. The only fab was to make engine and trans mounts for the chassis.
The engine was hidden behind a fake rear seat and the radiator was in the old engine compartment. It was an incredible sleeper.
Clay, by any weird chance would that have been in the Dallas area in the late 70's? Your friend an instructor at the IBM training center on Stemmons? Corvair was black?
Around 1981/82 in the DFW area. The guy was my age, and yes it was black. I don't know what his father did for a living, so it could be the same car.
Posted by: VaccaRabite Mar 17 2023, 07:24 AM
I have a 91 Westy with a Suby 2.5. The power is great but not too much. Gearing is great in the city but I need a higher gear, 4K at 70mph. This is a water cooled bus. A suby is not a great fit for the older bus. I think this would make a great conversion. With the lower HP motor, these vans had trouble getting out of their own way. Maybe the 6 is overkill but I am sure you will love it. I hope you keep posting your conversion process here!
one thing I think about is gearing of what ever porsche trans used due to the weight difference ,wonder if porsche addressed that in any way ?.Yes, the plan is to document everything here. The bus transmission is geared a bit lower to make the smaller T4 engine viable, which means its winding out the /6. I may need or want to slightly re-gear the 915 - something I want to talk to Mike about when I get closer to that stage of the build. Probably gearing in-between the Bus box and the stock gearing for the 911.
My idea for this bus is NOT to have it be fast. But to have it be able to climb hills without crawling into 3rd or 2nd, and be able to pull a small trailer or pull the 914 or dune bug.
A friend of mine with a T4 powered Westy uses his this way, so I should have no issues with the /6.
The /6 should also give me the option of adding AC, and will have a larger alternator so I'll be able to run more STUFF - like maybe seat heaters and a nicer sound system.
Speed wise, I intend to keep it about 70 - and maybe set s speed limiter since I have a currently 14 year old boy who may end up driving it from time to time when its done.
Zach
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Mar 17 2023, 09:46 PM
I have a 91 Westy with a Suby 2.5. The power is great but not too much. Gearing is great in the city but I need a higher gear, 4K at 70mph. This is a water cooled bus. A suby is not a great fit for the older bus. I think this would make a great conversion. With the lower HP motor, these vans had trouble getting out of their own way. Maybe the 6 is overkill but I am sure you will love it. I hope you keep posting your conversion process here!
When I was rolling down the highway in the Carrera powered 1986 Syncro, I had the 4th gear changed out to the Aussie (higher) ratio. Also had the 4wd transaxle rebuilt + blueprinted by a Baja-off road shop; as the stock box kept eating itself up.
Somehow you should be able to source the higher 4th gear (syncro 4wd), I would think that the 2wd gear would be available somewhere.
Posted by: Dr Evil Mar 20 2023, 11:28 AM
Dude, after having my big Corvair powered 74 http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=82750&hl=waggin , I am moving to a suby 6 swap. I want heat, A/C, and auto trans that is not screaming at freeway speeds. The Corvair engine was easily 200hp, some estimates 240hp on the forums about the 3.1 big bore treatment with opened up heads. I had the bus over 100mph once. It was terrifying. Last set up was a Eddlebrock 4bbl on an adapter to Weber 3 bolt pattern on the heads. I have a set of Zeniths, now, that I could put on it....if I wanted to continue as it was. I also have 16" wheels and bigger meats, with a slight 3" lift so my gearing is dropped with that a bit. The thing pulls like a tank and I remember one Summer going to Mid OH for the vintage motorcycle weekend and towing my 14' trailer loaded with camping gear, generator, a bunch of pit bikes, and going up an incline at 75mph and being able to accelerate and pass other cars all while the inside of the bus was also loaded. It was nice.
As for putting a Porsche 6 in a bus; I get asked about that a lot. For me it just didnt make sense as I want grunt not top speed and the Porsche engines cost way more to procure and maintain than the Corvair powerplants did. You live near CorvairRanch so even more reason as so did I at the time I built the bus. Of course, I say that about Porsche 6 engines and then I went crazy on the Corvair engine and bored it out and got fancy expensive heads, etc. Now its for sale, or may end up in a 914 project some day.
All that being said, the only real extra step with the 911 v the Corvair engine is the oil sump/tank/plumbing stuff. Corvair didnt need such, which saved money, time, weight, complexity. Everything else was pretty easy to get mounted and working.
Id recommend going with the 091 VW box, and regear if you need a higher gear. Get tire size and you can calculate the final RPM. Apparently, I am about to get into doing 091 builds...but they are easily gotten commercially for dirt cheap (why I never saw a reason to do VW builds when you can get a rebuild for $1500 exchange). I just bought the last of the special tools to do them as a friend conned me into doing his core he bought to fix his 2nd gear issue.
Posted by: VaccaRabite Mar 20 2023, 12:49 PM
Id recommend going with the 091 VW box, and regear if you need a higher gear. Get tire size and you can calculate the final RPM. Apparently, I am about to get into doing 091 builds...but they are easily gotten commercially for dirt cheap (why I never saw a reason to do VW builds when you can get a rebuild for $1500 exchange). I just bought the last of the special tools to do them as a friend conned me into doing his core he bought to fix his 2nd gear issue.
This is the path that I tend to want to go, as I'd rather not need to figure out the whole shifting geometry to add the 915, not to mention need to change all the suspension and axles to match the 915. Regear the bus box makes a lot of sense.
Zach
Posted by: euro911 Mar 20 2023, 04:24 PM
If I sell my wife's 2014 Subaru Outback, I might look into doing a Subi transplant in my '84 Westy 
Torn between a N/A 2.5L/4 or a N/A 3.0 or 3.3L/6 though 
A 2.5 L would be cheaper and easier to do, and probably get better fuel economy, but a '6' would sure be a lot of fun 
Posted by: smveril Mar 20 2023, 05:36 PM
There is a guy in Nebraska that bought a wrecked 911sd and put the engine and transmission in his 72 westfalia, He showed up Ina campout in N,Carolina . Awesome job he did
Posted by: anderssj Mar 21 2023, 08:08 AM
Food for thought 
This was at Nord Stern Region's outdoor show last summer.
Posted by: anderssj Mar 21 2023, 08:15 AM
And some older pictures from Richmond VA:
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Mar 21 2023, 08:52 AM
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=207 that's my old buddy Dieter Wanderer's single cab, now with a 3.2L. He's a former SoCal dude...now in Minnesota. When it orig had the 2.7L he drove it round trip from L.A. to the Yukon. Only hit a bear on the old Alcan highway...it was just a bump !
Bear kept going and Dieter only lost one headlight
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Mar 22 2023, 10:18 PM
"VW Trends" magazine, Dec. 1991; Dieter and I brought some 6cyl conversions over to the Rio Hondo dry river bed for some cool pics. His 1968 single-cab (brown/beige) now in Mn.
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Mar 22 2023, 10:21 PM
The 1968 single-cab was formerly used as a Shopping-cart retrieval vehicle !
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Mar 22 2023, 10:26 PM
Few more from the article, pic 6B shows a very short stick shift...but just after the article a proper extended rod was manufactured.
Posted by: Maltese Falcon Mar 22 2023, 10:29 PM
Last of the article pics...911 gauges on a custom alum dash plate/ 911 seats 
Posted by: anderssj May 10 2023, 07:01 PM
Wow, small world…and nice work on that truck. Nord Stern region is hosting another get together on June 25…I’ll say hi if I see him!
Posted by: Maltese Falcon May 10 2023, 07:41 PM
Wow, small world…and nice work on that truck. Nord Stern region is hosting another get together on June 25…I’ll say hi if I see him!
Dieter has great stories from that Alcan Hwy trip, def give him (and Arlene) my best regards !
Marty
Posted by: VaccaRabite May 10 2023, 07:59 PM
I did some measurements the other day.
The engine bay is 14 inches tall.
The 2.7 with CIS is 18 inches tall from the top of the engine mount bar to the top of the highest point.
So if I want to keep CIS I need to mount the engine lower in the bus and rig up a skid plate or something to protect it since it will now be the lowest part of the bus save the wheels. Or my measurements are wrong because I'm a total noob to 6 engines and I have no idea how they work or mount.
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=2755 With you conversions back in the day... Was service to the engine a "drop the engine to change a spark-plug" kinda thing? Did the engines need to be lower in the engine bay to fit?
I know if I went carbs or some other fuel injection I would loose several inches of height that the CIS currently has. And I'm sure Eric would be happy to sell me a plug and play injection setup when I get to that point if I don't want to use PMOs and can't get the stock CIS to work right.
Thanks!
Zach
Posted by: Dr Evil May 10 2023, 08:06 PM
You know, I still have my CIS set up for my engine that was custom fit into my 74 bus. I used a Volvo air box to lower the height and allow me to move the air box over. Also used my own homemade plenum, that I still have. Should bolt to a 911, the corvair was machined to have a weber 3c pattern.
Posted by: Dr Evil May 10 2023, 08:15 PM
CIS development for in bus use, can be adapted to your bus. You can try my set up if you want.
http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=167036&st=100
Starting around post #1142 is fab of the CIS system and other musings.
http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showtopic=82750&hl=waggin&st=1100
Posted by: type2man May 10 2023, 10:53 PM
I did some measurements the other day.
The engine bay is 14 inches tall.
The 2.7 with CIS is 18 inches tall from the top of the engine mount bar to the top of the highest point.
So if I want to keep CIS I need to mount the engine lower in the bus and rig up a skid plate or something to protect it since it will now be the lowest part of the bus save the wheels. Or my measurements are wrong because I'm a total noob to 6 engines and I have no idea how they work or mount.
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=2755 With you conversions back in the day... Was service to the engine a "drop the engine to change a spark-plug" kinda thing? Did the engines need to be lower in the engine bay to fit?
I know if I went carbs or some other fuel injection I would loose several inches of height that the CIS currently has. And I'm sure Eric would be happy to sell me a plug and play injection setup when I get to that point if I don't want to use PMOs and can't get the stock CIS to work right.
Thanks!
Zach
Did you ever get your 914 going? I remember it was carbureted, then megasquirt, then jack rabe helped you with it. Where is it now...
Posted by: Maltese Falcon May 10 2023, 11:42 PM
@http://www.914world.com/bbs2/index.php?showuser=1435
Zach...I never put a CIS engine into a Vanagon; only the 3.2L with Bosch DME motronic. Only needed to sand away approx ½" of sound-deadening material from under the engine lid. Engine didn't sit any lower than the oe water-boxer 2.1L engine. On some converted ('79-earlier) busses, I've seen a few that had a custom made/upholstered rear cushion/on a slightly taller sheet-metal "Box". Vanagon had normal (911'ish) engine servicing of engine/trans...only dropped it for clutch or t/o/b service.
Marty
Posted by: VaccaRabite May 11 2023, 07:45 AM
Did you ever get your 914 going? I remember it was carbureted, then megasquirt, then jack rabe helped you with it. Where is it now...
Its been a whole journey. Yeah, been driving it all over the easy coast since 2017 with the Megasquirt motor. Playing with the tune the entire time, becasue you can do the with MS, and it suits my need to tinker with stuff.
And then a friend started talking about a new motor he was going to get from PMB and I got some major FOMO and also had a little money burning a hole in my pocket. So I put a new 2258 fuel injected engine from PMB in my 914. My (now about perfectly tuned and good running) 2056 got sold.
The 2258 is still in break in (only 50 miles on it yet, going to put about 300 on it this weekend if plans hold) but its amazing. Everything feels like I'm one gear lower compared to the 2056 - and my 2056 was NOT a slouch either... My 914 could probably keep up with a modern mini-van in a drag race now.
Joking aside, the new 2258 in my 914 likely has about the same power as the CIS 2.7 I want to put in the bus. It took time to get, but the 914 really just flies with it. Were it not for the bus project, I'd be welding the steel flares I have for the 914 on this spring and going 5 lug. But right now I'll just have to content myself with driving the 914 while the bus continues its restoration.
Zach
Posted by: Maltese Falcon May 11 2023, 08:13 AM
'85 Doka' with a sb 350" Chevy + g50 5speed is a whole different story
Posted by: JmuRiz Jul 25 2023, 07:41 PM
Zach, any interest in SC grind Elgin 3 bearing cams for your 2.7. I might know a guy with a pair…and some spare cis pistons if you ever need any.
Posted by: flat4guy Jul 25 2023, 07:55 PM
A few years ago at the VW Porsche treffen in California a guy had put a Porsche 6 in his double cab - but he flipped it around and it was under the bed mid engine style. I'll look for pics.
Posted by: flat4guy Jul 25 2023, 08:06 PM
Posted by: Chris H. Jul 25 2023, 09:34 PM
This is an interesting syncro/996 Carrera 4 project…been for sale for years. HUGE project to say the least…
https://www.thesamba.com/vw/classifieds/detail.php?id=2616238
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