Mike Stirewalt wrote: > Would somebody take the time to explain why the Type IV engine is not > the engine you usually see in homebuilts. Why is the Type 2 favored?
The small 1600cc based Type 1 is what you see in most aircraft. The larger, more robust 1700-2000cc (from the factory) engine is usually referred to as the Type 4, since it mostly came in Type 4 VWs. That would be "fastbacks" and station wagon 411's and 412's), as well as the Porsche 914 and later air-cooled buses. Earlier buses used the Type 1, with later buses using the Type 4 engine (from about 1972 on) The buses themselves (not the engines) are called "Type 2"s, but the engines in later buses and Type 4 VWs are essentially the same. The Type 4 is a much better engine than the Type 1...it's VW's "fix" for the issues Type 1 engines have. The "problem" is that there were not that many Type 4 engines built compared to Type 1's, and when they were built, they were soon overtaken by the far superior (for auto use) water-cooled engine. So no aftermarket emerged to create replacement parts for the type 4, unlike the Type 1, which flourishes still, with many choices for every engine piece you can think of. Type 4 parts are harder to find, and therefore, several times more expensive. They are a better engine, with better reliability and life, however. There's a lot more on this at http://www.n56ml.com/kvw.html , from back when I was planning to use a Type 4 VW, but discovered the Corvair. I still regret selling my Type 4...I sure wish I had it now! Mark Langford ML at N56ML.com http://www.n56ml.com
