I've got a 1986 Syncro with 172K, which passed all necessary inspections,
and handles fine.  It wasn't a Westy when I bought it, but it is now that
I've put in all the gear.  I want top-notch handling, so I'm going to put in
Steve Schwenk's new springs and OME shocks, even though it doesn't seem to
"need" them.  (I'll need to have a shop handle it due to my lack of skills,
tools, and a place to work.)

I want to keep it for many years with it as reliable & trouble-free as
possible (plus now's the time to spend money on it if I ever will).  Surely
it makes sense to have them replace other components while they've got it
apart...?

So, in addition to whatever the shop tells me is bad or marginal:
1.>  what things should I probably/definitely replace
(bushings/joints/seals/other) after 172K?
2.>  what's required to install 16" wheels in the future, and can it be done
now since I'll keep my new 14" rubber for 20K-50K more miles?

Regards,

David Jaffe
1986 Syncro West'faux'lia
Portland, Oregon