Having owned a 1976 that completely incinerated everything in the motorbox
except the cooling tin, and the block (yup, melted the aluminum fan
housing, fan, and alternator!), I can say "go for it".

This fire doesn't sound like a big deal (from what you describe). You could
prolly get it for a song.
G. Matthew Bulley
Bulley-Hewlett
Corporate Communications Counselors
www.bulley-hewlett.com
Cary, NC USA
888.468.4880 tollfree

"I, the undersigned, shall forfeit all rights, privileges, and licenses
herein and herein contained, et cetera, et cetera . . . fax mentis
incendium gloria culpum, et cetera, et cetera . . . memo bis punitor
delicatum!" It's all there, black and white, clear as crystal!      -Wonka

-----Original Message-----
From:   Andrew Dunn [SMTP:AndrewD158@AOL.COM]
Sent:   Friday, January 14, 2000 2:40 PM
To:     vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject:        Engine box fire.

    I'm going to take a look at what would be a second Van for equipment
and
around town hauling. Its an 85 'gl.  I called the dealer and he told me
that
it had just caught on fire a day ago in the lot when moving it.
 Apparently,
the "power steering" belt jammed came off, something or another, and
created
a fire.  He says that it still runs(not quite as well) etc. and didn't
blame
me if I did not want to look at it.  Anyway, anyone out there have any
advice
on whether its worth taking a look.  I'm most worried about replacing,
expensiveplastic parts, and those lingering intolerable odors from
electrical/rubber fires.

Yours,
Andrew Dunn
89 gl