Jake Raby Testimonial
Several years ago, I purchased a 1970 Westy to use for Camping in the North Georgia, North Carolina Mountains. On a trip to Florida the engine gave out. I took it to Jake and asked him to rebuild it. He showed me where the case was cracked and that the engine was worn out. I then asked him to build a new engine for my bus.
In our discussion, we settled on these performance requirements. I wanted the engine to push the bus in the mountains. So I wanted guts and power on the hills. I didn't want high speed, as above 75mph any VW bus is a handful, being such an aerodynamic beauty. I wanted guts. Jake wanted to build an engine that could take the heat and strain of pushing a 5,000 pound vehicle, plus camping gear up the mountains. Jake came forward with the requirements, a 1600 cc with a strong case, heavy duty heads, pistons, connecting rods, etc. He also recommended dual Weber Carbs to give the engine the power it needed.
What was the result? Here's an example. I was on the Blue Ridge parkway with a bunch of other buses and Kathy Jacobs (President of SEVWC) in a VW Rabbit. It was during the cruise part of the High country Bus Festival. I was in front and over the hills and turns of the Blue Ridge, I just pulled away from the group and eventually lost them. Later Kathy would email all participants in the HCBF that either Carl had a rocket in his bus or one powerful engine. Yes, as I repeat this story to others, it was the second, a powerful, rugged Jake Raby engine.
Here's a second example. Our daughter goes to college in Asheville, NC, so we drive between Atlanta, GA and Asheville NC several times a year in the bus. There is a hill just north of Franklin, NC on Hwy 23 that is a steady climb for about 3 miles then a steady down hill. I just put the bus in 3rdgear and at 40mph the bus effortlessly climbs the hill. I can leave all but the V-8 powered cars behind. I definitely run away from any VW bus on that hill.
The engine how has 25,000 miles on it and it has been trouble free. I adjust the heads, change the oil and tune it up regularly. Once the carbs/ engine combination were dialed in they have been great. I get 18mpg on the highway. I cruise at 70mph at 4,000 rpm and the engine doesn't even get warm (yes it has an extra oil sump). At 40,000 miles the engine goes back to Jake for overhaul and adjustment, then I should look forward to more years of good service.
I have been very pleased with the performance of the engine. My next project (dream) is a Squareback with a Jake Raby Type IV engine in it. That will be a highway screamer!
Carl Ericsson's herd
1970 Westy
1970 Bug
Convertible
1971 Ghia Convertible.
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