Goto Vanagon.com and in the info page, they have a section about what to look for when buying.  I used these guidelines when I bought my 83.5 water cooled and I am SOOOO glad I did.  I was very familiar with the air-cooleds at the time but didn't know squat about water-cooled (Head Gaskets? What the hell are head gaskets???) This section really helped.  If the author of this page is out there I need to give you a belated "Thanks!"
Peace, john Baker

On Fri, 16 Nov 2001 06:25:39 -0500 Isaac Taylor <itaylor@MEDIAONE.NET> wrote:

Well, I've finally saved up what I hope is enough money to close the deal, and
am soon to meet the (owners of the) van of my dreams tomorrow.  87 Westy, 2WD.
1 owner -- a retired couple.  Good body, seemingly solid drivetrain, nice
interior.  Even the fridge works!  This van is relatively has relatively low
mileage, for better or worse; I think it's been sitting (save periodic
driveway reshuffling) for about 3 years.  And to think: not 2 blocks from my
apartment, all the while!

What should I look out for that wouldn't be obvious to the uninitiated?  I'm a
lifetime VW guy, but have never owned a vanagon - nevermind a westy - and I'm
sure there a dozen little (or big?) things I should have on the checklist, but
just don't know about.

All advice, admonishment, encouragement and empiric wisdom appreciated!

-Isaac in Cambridge