Almost lost the engine in my '83 ASI diesel Vanagon yesterday due to water
in the intake.  Here in southern California, rain isn't much of a concern.
Yesterday we had our first "real" rain of the season.  Because of the cost
of the factory air intake components, I have been using a length of
industrial hose between the air filter box and the "snorkel" thing up in the
air intake grille on the left side.  I left out the "magic cyclonic
separator elbow thingy" and the accordion connector between it and the air
filter box. BIG MISTAKE!!

I drove 12 miles to work in the rain.  The van started fine a few hours
later, but when I pulled out of the parking lot it began to lose power.  I
immediately returned to the lot to investigate.  After verifying that there
was fuel in the tank, I opened the air cleaner box.  The filter was soaked
and there was standing water all the way up to where the bolt-heads are that
connect the filter box to the intake manifold, about 1/2 quart (or liter) or
so.  If I had made just one hard turn to the right, I have little doubt that
at least one cylinder would have aspirated enough water to destroy the
engine.  Lesson learned!!!  The factory parts are designed with a purpose in
mind.  $100 or so for new hose and elbow is a bargain compared to the cost
of an engine.

Mike Snow