Markus:

What a deal!  (was that 600 Kroner, or $600 USD?)

My first inclination would be a thorough check of all things "Syncro" on it.
Test the VC to make sure it is not binding too much (I could write a novel
on the meaning of that phrase).  Steve Schwenk recently posted some
excellent commentary on the "rolling jack" test of the VC   - check the
archives.

Next, I would probably look at the CV joints and the trans - does it try to
jump out of 3rd or 4th gear while cruising down the road?  (sign of
impending Syncro Trans failure according to what I have read here).  Also,
look closely to make sure that all the tires are equal in make/model and
tread depth.

Don't ask me about the brakes, as I have proven myself unfit in that
department...  :-)

Since you have not described any other obvious problems, I assume that the
other "normal" Vanagon engine issues apply.  (i.e. check the coolant,
compression, etc.)

Good luck and congratulations!

Brent Christensen
'89 GL Syncro Westy
Santa Barbara, CA

----- Original Message -----
From: Markus Samuelson <BP@EARTHLING.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Monday, April 17, 2000 12:16 AM
Subject: Syncro question

> Hello all out there!
>
> I've just bought a 1988 Syncro Double Cab Transporter 112i with some
> 220000Km on it. It cost me around 600$ so I couldn't resist buing it
> since it is i fairly good shape not much rust etc. Now is there anything
> special I  should check out before using it in daily use? Besides the
> "normal" checkup of oil, water, brakes etc. I know it has been standing
> for a while before I bought it and I have to check out the boiling
> problem the previous owner told me it has. Another thing, my spare is
> under the rear seat in the cab is that the normal placement for a double
> cab?
>
> regards
> Markus Samuelson, Sweden
> 1988 Syncro DoubleCab 112i
> 1988 DoubleCab 112i
> 1998 Audi A3 TDi