David,

One of the best attributes of the '84 vintage is its simplicity and
reliability.  With no PS, AC, or power anything there is little to go
wrong other than the engine and transmission.  I love mine for exactly
that reason.  Without PS and AC the engine also doesn't work as hard, so
it should last longer and get better mileage.

You could retrofit PS, but you would need to find a junkyard specimen
and pull all the parts yourself so you know where they go.  Brackets,
pump, long hoses, steering rack, etc.  Plan on at least three weekends
for the job.  As far as the AC, there are aftermarket kits, but the
Vanagon is a big box that is hard to cool, so would have to be careful
to determine if the unit is up to the task.  You don't have AC when you
camp anyway!

You will be best advised to find a van that has what you want/need on it
than to attempt a retrofit, IMHO.  As far as women and the steering go,
neither my wife or daughter has any trouble with ours.  In fact, my
daughter took her driver's test in it when she was 16. They are light on
the front end, and if you keep the vehicle moving a bit when steering
while parking it is much easier to steer.  This is a technique long
forgotten since the advent of PS, most folks just spin the wheel back
and forth because it is so easy, but this is also hard on the tires.
You will find your parking options are more limited anyway, since you
need a 7' clearance in parking garages.

Most women can benefit from a little upper body strengthening anyway!
Look at the '84 as an enforced workout program!

Good luck with your purchase.
--
Stuart MacMillan
Manager, Case Program
800-909-8244 ext. 8208

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