While agreeing in principle with Stuart's theory, I might also suggest a
good sized 'over the bed' PU truck Camper unit. They can often be found
pretty reasonable if you wish to put in sweat equity. Get one with 'the
facilities' and shower. While not as much fun to drive as a westy.. much
more comfortable to live in over the long term.
Of course, you might be planning on relying on the kindness of your
farmer friends for showers, etc... so don't let us disuade you from your
goal. In that case, buy a westy with a blown engine... cheep, then do a
rebuilt unit so you know exactly what you are working with. Leaking
motors are never minor, as you have figured out.

tim

> For your purposes you really need a Class A motor home with heat, shower
> and toilet, not to mention air conditioning.  Pretty tough to live in a
> Westy and be presentable for making sales calls, especially with the
> weather extremes Iowa has.  You will not find anyone in Iowa to work on
> a Westy, and you really don't want to get stranded in a blizzard
> somewhere.