> I'm searching for a few parts for the exhaust of my 81 Vanagon.  It's a
> non-CAL., catalyst van.  I hope I can explain this well.  I need the
> 180-degree "U" fitting that turns from the collector rail to the catalytic
> converter and muffler. It has rusted out and needs replaced.
> Every parts supplier I go to doesn't list it as a part available.  Every
junk
> yard I go to, it either is rusted as well, or is missing because someone
else
> needed it too.
> What I need is either a place to purchase it, or a part number.
> Or is it time to put after market exhaust on?  Any suggestions?

You can replace the crossover pipe itself, which includes the elbow that you
need.  (The replacement we sell is all once piece, including the entire
crossover pipe plus the elbow.)  Looks same as stock. Part number 071 251
497B, $227.95.  Fits aircooled '79-83 except California emissions.  In
stock.

If emissions testing is not a concern, your other option is to replace your
entire system with a '72-74 bus exhaust. The best bet for that is my
Stainless Steel unit for $179.95, which will outlast anything else that fits
that year by a huge margin.  This will replace everything behind the heat
exchangers, allow better exhaust flow, and save you a bundle, since
replacement parts for this setup are far cheaper. It is the setup used in
most of the world, where cat converters were not required. However, since it
does not allow the use of a cat converter or egr filter, technically it is
not street-legal. Enforcement varies dramatically depending on state, or in
some cases, locality or even specific inspection station.

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  www.busdepot.com
  (215) 234-VWVW

> Washington State doesn't have strict DEQ laws.... :)