Best configurations for making torque in a VW type 1

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

I might be getting a hold of a 71 bus pretty soon for next to nothing and was wondering what you all might suggest as good combinations for making more torque based off the stock 1600DP. I've been checking the samba as well.

[genrex]

I would suggest staying with the doghouse fan shroud, and mildly porting the stock dual-port heads. You are limited to the stock valve sizes unless you increase the exhaust to 1 5/8" diameter (that would mean getting rid of the heater boxes unless you buy the 1 5/8" diameter heater boxes from Gene Berg). Larger exhaust is for higher hp at higher rpm's, though, and I assume you don't need that.

I suggest using a 78mm c/w crank, and "thick-wall" 88mm pistons and cylinders. Some people will suggest 90.5 p and c's, but tests have shown that they will soon warp in the heat of a bus engine compartment. There are also "slip-in" 88's available (they do not require machining of the heads), but don't get them as they will soon warp due to the heat. Thick-wall 88's are the best for a bus.

For a cam I'd suggest a stock cam with 1.25 rocker arms, or for a bit more fun an Engle 100 - equivalent or at the very most an Engle 110 - equivalent cam (274 duration, .431 total lift with stock 1.1 rocker arms). Anything with more duration than that will hurt your low-rpm torque.

So... is it gonna be a babe magnet?

[id10t]

Find a 356 or 912 motor and be done with it. Or rebuild your type 1 to the same specs.

[bigchillcar]

jared..have you thought of pm'ing john walker? he's the 'king of bus men' as far as i know. the more windows the better..
ryan

[Drago]

Originally posted by bigchillcar
jared..have you thought of pm'ing john walker? he's the 'king of bus men' as far as i know. the more windows the better..
ryan

Either John or Thom I'd guess. I've seen some of John's projects.

I don't think it's complete yet but last time I talk to him he was planning on installing a turbo'ed 3.0 SC motor in one of his buses!

[Jared at Pelican Parts]

356 or 912 motor is out.. Where am I going to find one of those cheap anyway. The cost of the motor would be more than the bus is worth.

I was thinkng of getting one of the Scat Volkstroker kits to take it up to a 1915 for $500, (69mm x 94mm Ive heard the 94's arent as prone to warping), however Id have to have the case machined for the bigger jugs, and have a little head work done. Was also thinking of running an old 2 barrel progressive Weber ive got laying in the garage. I also will probably rig up an external cooler to deal with the added heat. I'm not looking for power here, im looking for low end, so that im not going 30MPH up a hill in first.

[VINMAN]

You can always stick one of these in there.

2180cc I built.

[widebody911]

Type IV.

There's a guy locally with a 2L+ turbo charged type IV engine in a 1954 bus. He could keep up with my 2.7L to about 70MPH.

I'm not the person to consult for big motors - I keep mine stock.