[Vwdiesel] Why #3

[Libbybapa@wmconnect.com]

In a message dated 9/7/05 3:42:10 PM US Mountain Standard Time, 
kadm at pugetsound.net writes:


> This is the first I recall hearing of #3 being a problem waiting to happen. 
> Is it a "spun" big-end bearing, the small end, or the actual rod itself 
> that seems to be most at risk? Is it limited to the diesels or do the 
> petrol burners experience it too?
> 
> 

It is limited to the n/a diesel vanagons.  It is at the big end.  The one 
that I saw first hand the end cap was off the rod.  Rod was bent 90°, poking out 
of a big hole in the side of the case.  Piston was broken free from the small 
end, and int shaft was broken into three pieces.  What came first the chicken 
or the egg?

My original question from my obsession with the diesel vanagons, much 
watching of ebay and other classified sites, and an especial interest in broke down 
ones (I like sweat equity).  I have heard of probably 8-10 diesel vanagons with 
tossed rods.  Each was the #3 rod.  Thus my question why #3?

BTW the curb weight of the vanagon is between 3100 and 3600 lbs depending on 
which madel.  The synchro camper weighs more than that, but the synchro was 
never offered with a diesel engine.  Regardless, yes that little n/a diesel 
engine works very hard in a vanagon.  And yes, they are far from peppy.  My 1.6 
intercooled TD does just fine.  It's a very driveable vehicle from my 
perspective, but not a fast car.  I am also sure that it usually gets revved much higher 
with the diesel vanagon.  1st gear up some grades!  Regardless none of those 
items touch on the question "Why #3?"

Here's my take, and it's worth less than I'm charging for it.  There is a 
main bearing with a groove around it for increased oiling to #4 rod.  If that 
groove were't there #4 would go every time because of, as Hagar mentioned, the 
fact that it caries all the torque of all four pistons.  Since the groove is 
there, it improves #4, but now #3 is weaker.

I have heard from one other individual on the diesel vanagon list that says 
that rod big end fasteners coming undone is not uncommon.  

Andrew