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Simple question :

VW makes two types of WBX engine cases

a) 1983/1985 early type with bug style bearings
b) 1986/1992 late type with 3-piece thrust bearing

which one do you prefer and why ?

Don't know how to fill out the poll, but I would look also towards 1,9 or 2,1 because the 1,9 had all type 4 main bearings as opposed to the 2,1 ltr case?

Probably everyone uses what they can get their hands on most cheaply and then see what needs to be done...

Greetings,
Walter

Wally, are you sure about the 1.9 having all T4 mains?

I thought the cranks were interchangable... Only the ODs were different on the bearings.

If what you say is true I'll start looking for a 1.9...

No, not sure, as I've very little wbx case experience.

I thought it was only the center main... UNsure about #4.

Hey guys,

I can't bellieve you guys still don't know this stuff yet...

The earlier and later WBX cranks are the same, besides stroke size...

The earlier (1.9) uses all Type I (bug) bearings ... The #1 (thrust end) is Type IV size ... with a bastard 1mm thinner thrust. You have to use this special bearing, or make a bearing... or use a shim on a std. Type IV bearing.

The late (2.1) cases use thin Chevy style bearing shells, with tangs instead of conventional dowell pins... These are very thin, steel backed bearings... The thrust has the funky Three piece thrust bearing, that I don't use very often.

The case on the 2.1's has the bearing oil circulation grooves in the case, not the back-side of the bearing... A very interesting, and advanced design concept... All bug cases should be made like this.

I like to use the 1.9 case.... or convert the 2.1 to 1.9 style bearings.... More time = More $$$$$....

Most people haven't realized the cost vs Quality advantage of running one of these conversions... People are still living in the Type I / Type IV Dark Ages.

Good Luck on you're Projects... Let me know if you want to ship that case out to me for a conversion.... Best QUALITY around... No Fancy Website.

- Joe

Thanks T5Joe, I couldn't quite remember...

I guess we need an FAQ.

I forgot to get back with you on the CV setup--Of course now I'm broke...

Hey Joe what's up ?!

1.9s are also not the favourite choice in Europe.
2.1 are very expensive in the last few months as the demand is seriously increased.

But to find STD 1.9 engine case is another story all are 0.50 ...
I have about 25 engine cases at the moment.Most are rebuildable as wbx only 4 for oxy 3 late and just one old model...

I now be able to remove head studs at any condition broken frozen rusted out etc !!!! (I destroy some cases and lots of studs !)

I have mill down the water jackets from 2 engine case and I have remove all the head studs BUT nothing more as free time is a luxury at the moment!

Rgds

Is there any difference between the ?new? 2.1 and the ?new? 1.9 case ?

WBX man : What do you mean by "New" are you talking about factory New blocks? As for the blocks the 1.9 are a very nice. I have made a thrust brg. so you can put a bug main brg. crank in the 1.9, they work great. There are a lot of 1.9 blocks around from the people that have bought 2.1s to go into their h20 vanagons. I would rather have the oil grooves in the main brg. but on the crank side. With more of a foundation in the block for the bearing to sit on. The t-4 brgs are made that way & so is the special main brg I make for the 1.9 block. I will post a picture of the brg. I make so everyone can see the quality. I"ll also put pictures on my WEB site. I would like to thank all of the customers that I have helped on their (H20 to Air) Race projects. Thanks Rocky

These are the bearings that allow you to run a type 1 main journal sized crank in a 1.9L block:

http://www.rockyjennings.com/19_conv_brg.htm

Hello Rocky!

Well WBX_MAN if you talking about European engine cases yes they are the same part # and exactly the same as from 1986 and up VW produces only the latter 3-piece thrust bearing engine cases.They fitted in all brand of wbx engines DF/DG/MV/SS/SR/DJ.

These conversion bearings looks pristine !
So you prefer 1.9 engine cases than 2.1 correct ??

Rgds,

Hey Jim & Pocketrocket

Thanks for you answers !

Well WBX_MAN if you talking about European engine cases yes they are the same part # and exactly the same as from 1986 and up VW produces only the latter 3-piece thrust bearing engine cases. They fitted in all brand of wbx engines DF/DG/MV/SS/SR/DJ.

That's just what I wanted to now !

I'm building a 2.1 in a 1.9 case both from '86-> and I just want as few problems with the vehicle inspection as possible.
In Denmark you have to pay extra tax, if you increase you hp more than 20 %

So I'll build in the 2.1 parts into my org. 1.9 case and hope for the best at the next inpection

Cheers,
Rasmus

Jim, I like both blocks just depends on what kind of engine I'm going to build & what crankshaft I will use. Say all t-4 mains I would use the 1.9 for sure. The 2.1 if they use the stock bug main crank. But I also build 1.9s with bug main crank with my special thrust brg. So both are great. Rocky