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Thu Jan 29, 2015 11:32 am

I am about to start my first buggy/sandrail project, I've wanted to do this since I've been a kid. I have never built a motor before, and I am looking at going with a 2110cc engine. I am wondering if anyone knows of any website that will provide a step by step basis or tutorial for beginners on building a VW Engine. Any information would be appreciated thanks in advance.

Thu Jan 29, 2015 11:45 am

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/archives/manuals/Jim_Martin_Engine_Build/Jim_Martin_Engine_Build.pdf

is a very good read.

Thu Jan 29, 2015 11:59 am

marc.comeau1984 wrote: I am about to start my first buggy/sandrail project, I've wanted to do this since I've been a kid. I have never built a motor before, and I am looking at going with a 2110cc engine. I am wondering if anyone knows of any website that will provide a step by step basis or tutorial for beginners on building a VW Engine. Any information would be appreciated thanks in advance.

That a BIG first engine to build with no experience but it can be done. Here is my only piece of advice that most likely won't be in any book. When you build it, I would put it together and take it apart at least 4 times to make sure everything is perfect before using sealer for the final assembly. There is a TON more to know when building a stroker compared to one with a stock stroke 69mm crank.

Thu Jan 29, 2015 12:04 pm

Thanks for that link John, I'm already reading it.

And yes you are right it is a big engine to build with no experience. The purpose of this buggy will be riding in open pits, wooden area's and rocky terrain. I was going to build a 1600/1641cc but I was advised to go 2110 to get the power I'm looking for. you're not the first to tell me to take it apart and put it back together. It makes sense as to why.

I just want to make sure I don't skip any steps while ordering the parts, and putting them together as I go. And can I start getting some of the other stuff on the frame such as suspension etc.

Thu Jan 29, 2015 12:23 pm

Do you have any local vw machine shops around or close to where you live? I found a local place with good reviews and got to know the owner and purchased a majority of my parts from him. In turn, as I got to know him, I was able to pick his brain. I also brought some of the components in and he helped me understand setting up valve geometry and other assembly tricks. I also purchased books, read the forums religiously and watched the bug me video several times. I only built a 1776, but I still wanted to make sure I knew what I was getting into since building an engine is a sizable investment.

Tue Feb 03, 2015 4:00 pm

No local shops and thats alright - I've done a lot of reading, and I somewhat know in which direction I am going thanks for all the tips and advice. Wish there was a step by step place I could go for my first build haha

Tue Feb 03, 2015 7:17 pm

there is little diferance in building a big vs a small.most big are easy and so many combos just go right togeather, not like my first stroker vw almost 15 years ago. if you have any brains use them if not find someone that does and read up then ask questions.