Originally Posted by
suki101
The VR6 is pretty sought. One weak point would be the timing chain guides. Another would be the head gasket; if the car has been neglected they usually start to leak externally on the passenger side of the motor behind the serp. belt. The thermostat housing and related parts like the “crack pipe” can start to leak too if they are higher mileage. If you are looking at using a higher mileage motor I would do the following:
-Replace timing chains & guides (about $150 in parts)
-Inspect the water pump and replace if needed with a pump that has a metal impeller ($45-$50)
-Replace the thermostat housing and add an aluminum “crack pipe” ($130-$150 for a “total kit”)
-Inspect the oil pan & oil pump for damage & replace gasket
I would also replace the clutch and TO bearing. Motor mounts would be good too. There is one other item that might need attention. All VR6 cars have an electric after run/secondary water pump. Over time they leak and can be price, $150-$170 new. They can be bypassed and the car will still run fine. There are some thing I have left out I’m sure but if you have any questions feel free to let me know.
PS: VW Heater Cores will leak with age, luckly you can bypass it...