I must admit Brian Cochran, thats a heart wrenching story and you're a
pretty good writer.

I have an 83 Aircooled Westfalia and I visit a lot of auto wrecking yards
throughout my travels. I find really great looking water-cooled Vanagons
sitting in these yards that look like you could just get in them and
drive off. Most come in nearly complete with the engine partially
dis-assembled and sitting in the rear deck I find the heads and a bunch
of coolant lines. It is aparrent that the owners of these vans were
caring owners because they have nice paint and interiors and sometimes
almost new tires.

I also have an 86 Oldsmobile, this is a true $700.00 car and I'd scrap it
if it cost $700.00 to repair.

But I'm also the victom of the vehicle with my 83 Westfalia, I paid
$2000.00 for it seven years ago and spend $1800.00 on parts within 90
days. It's been charging on ever since with very little maintenance
required. The nature of the Westfalia and my interest in camping and
nature prompted me to spend those bucks. I just plain like the Westfalia.

Here's hoping you'll enjoy many years of pleasant experiences with your
Westfalia.

Stan Wilder
83 Westfalia AirCooled
For a quick look http://williamwareagency.com/forsale/stanvan/stanvan.htm