> Thanks everybody for the advice and sources. All things considered, I
> decided to order the damaged section replacement from Bus Depot, [with the
> salesmans assurance that it should bolt right up]

Well, let me be crystal clear here.  The Jopex pipe that we sell is the
exact same size/shape as the stock pipe that you would pay more for at the
dealer.  Does this mean that it will "bolt right up?"  Yes it will, IF the
other pipes, brackets, etc. it connects to on your van are still in original
condition.  But if they are bent and tweaked from being on your van for so
long, then the installation may be more difficult, as the old pipes will
want to "spring" to whatever shape they want as soon as you unbolt them,
forcing you to coax or pry them back to where you want them when trying to
line up to the new part.  This is somewhat common when installing exhaust,
so don't be too shocked if it happens.  If you run up against this, be
assured that had you purchased the pipe from the dealer you would have had
the same problem, as it is not caused by the new pipe but by wear on the old
ones.  If it happens, the only solution is to curse and wrestle with it for
a while (or of course replace the whole exhaust system at once).

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

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Toll-Free for Orders by Part #    1-866-BUS-DEPOT