Yikes, sidewalls cannot be safely patched after a puncture, too much
flexing, especially with radials.  No competent shop would do this for
liability reasons alone.

Good advice from Dan!  Also follow the recommended tire pressure
recommendation on your van.  In all cases, except for Ford in the case
of the Explorer
(http://www.usatoday.com/money/consumer/autos/mauto771.htm), this is the
correct and safe pressure!
--
Stuart MacMillan
Seattle

'84 Vanagon Westfalia
'65 MGB (Driven since 1969)
'74 MGB GT (Restoring)

Assisting on Restoration:
'72 MGB GT (Daughter's)
'64 MGB (Son's)

Parts cars:
'68 & '73 MGB, '67 MGB GT