Thanks to all who responded to my 14 mpg problem.

It looks like I may have done something right (but I do not know what), I
filled up last night and found I got around 17 mpg on the last tank.

Here is what I have done:

new top end on motor (about 2000 miles)
New AFM
patch harness for AFM (for bucking problem I had)
new cat. converter
new S&S exhaust system
new o2 sensor
four wheel alignment ( and new tires),
new injector hoses (old ones cracked)

hours of messing with stuff,   adjustments at local vw shop (who did not know
about the available patch to deal with the bucking) when I felt like I wasn't
doing any good my self and more knowledge was required.  He said he checked
the temp sensor and that it was okay.

 SO there it is.  Oh yeah, the nose sits a  little higher when unloaded, but
my guess is that it more lthan levels out with people in it.  Most driving is
around town with my (very small) wife driving my 5, 3, and 1 year olds. when
I drive on the freeway, I keep at or below 4000 rpms.
any help appreciated.

Oh yeah two more things:  mark replied that the torque converter only locks
up at 3200  (I think that is what he said), can that be changed.

Second, Is there a method for normal tuning of timing and air fuel mixture
without the special tools called for in Bentley?

thanks very much.
Charlie.