Last updated:  9/8/09

We hope to help the previous Tiico owners the best we can to keep their Vanagons on the road!!  Things to note regarding common Tiico issues.  If you have an issue that is not in this list then please email chris@foreignautosupply.com with details. 

1.  Emissions, power loss, bad mpg, etc…:  There were many previous Tiico engines with the timing 1 cam tooth off relative to the crank.  Therefore it would be wise to verify the crank is at TDC with the cam notch lined up to the mating surface of the head and valve cover (you only have to remove the upper timing cover) and set the rotor to the notch on the distributor.  Let the engine warm up and set the computer to basic setting mode (the RPM should increase to about 1500 RPM), then set the timing by rotating the distributor to 10 degrees BTDC on the standard Tiico and 6 degrees BTDC on the high output.  You have to use a digital advanced timing gun because on most engines there was not a notch that would line up at the 6 or 10 degree mark.  I would highly suggest you check even if you don’t feel you have any issues!

2.  MAP sensors:  The MAP (duo) sensor is prone to fail on the older models below 30 degrees F.  The replacement sensor PN# 06B 906 051 is not available in the US but usually have some in stock.  They cost $149.  There have been no warranty reports on the new style

3.  Recommended oil:  The major factors that dictate oil type should be based on the age/condition of the engine and environment of its use.  The light on the dash is based on the oil pressure sending units.  A new engine would require a 10W30 or 10W40.  One that is peaking its lifespan would be leaning towards a 20W50.  As temperatures rises the viscosity decreases so factor that in while choosing the viscosity rating.  

4.  Engine vibration issues:  It is an absolute must that the Vanagon’s transmission is removed and bolted to the engine before it is installed.  Those that argue it won’t make a difference are absolutely incorrect.  (Some may luck out and not have issues, but it is not the proper install)  We’ve installed over 150 previous Tiico’s and have not a single customer with vibration issues.  You must find out from the installer if the tranny was removed when the conversion took place or not.  If it wasn’t then don’t waste any time with anything else, unfortunately approximately 90% of vibration issues are due to that.  The second common issue corresponds to incorrect exhaust mountings.  This conversion requires a 2.1L waterboxer catalytic converter and a 1.9L waterboxer muffler.  If those are not used the mountings are not in their correct location and harmonics create huge vibration issues.  Also be sure the there is a bracket for the catalytic converter and another bracket for the muffler, with both brackets using a rubber spacer between the engine and the bracket to absorb vibration.  Click on descriptions below to view pictures.  The catalytic converter and muffler can be installed 3 different ways because of the symentrical 3-bolt patterns.  Note in the pictures their proper location. 

Picture 1: Side view for catalytic converter location.

Picture 2: Catalytic converter mounting position.

Picture 3: Catalytic Converter / Muffler mounting location.

Picture 4: Crank pulley / muffler clearance distance with A3 Serpentine kit.

Picture 5: Muffler & rear end clearance.  

Picture 6: Muffler bracket mount configuration.  The slots on this side are to be extended for proper shipment.  

Last aspect involves the rare few that had unbalanced flywheels, unbalanced crankshafts, or incorrectly weighted piston rods.  The only way to effectively diagnose this is to be sure the above items were done correctly.    

5.  Serpentine belt kit issues:  There were many early model blocks that did not have the correct boss provision on the block to fit the serpentine belt kit.  Some needed to be drilled and tapped to accept the bracket, and others needed spaces between the boss and bracket so it mounted flush with the other bosses.  Some had issues with both.  If this boss was not used or spaced correctly that will create issues such as minor vibration, and others will destroy belts with very few miles on it.  More details on this and pictures will be available shortly.

6.  Engine Details:  The Tiico is a 2.0L and not a 1.8L.  The block is of a 1.8L but the Crank, piston rod, and piston exchange provide the displacement to increase to 2.0L.  The purpose of this is to have a block that is 2cm lower so everything fits under the engine lid.

We truly want to help everyone as much as possible, and since joining the forum we are overwhelmed with questions.  This guide is to help the majority of common issues and if it doesn’t answer your question please feel free to contact us.  You can email chris@foreignautosupply.com, but I highly recommend you call (207) 833-0009 if you need tech info because we simply don’t have the man-power to answer every email.  We’re putting our focus on our upcoming engine projects, such as the 16 valve Naturally Aspirated, 16 valve Supercharged, and our own 2.0L TDI conversions.  We’re extremely happy with our first shipment of engines, for which they took care of 95% of our issues on our quality control list we provided to them while in South Africa.

We’re very enthusiastic about importing new VW engines and accessories for all our Vanagons.  Thank you all & we look forward in keeping all Vanagons on the road!

Best Wishes,

FAS Inc.