Yes that is true.

We found ours on carmax, from the newspaper classifieds listings in
Louisiana. We bought it from an older couple who were now too old to drive it
around. They were the original owners (the car even came with their old sales
contract). We got it for $1500 plus the $700  to ship it here to Florida.

From the fact that the tires on the vehicle had all of their tread, but were
age cracked beyond use, it looks like the vehicle spent all of its time over
the last 10 years parked, so I am inclined to believe the odometer reading
(plus the fact that the speedometer cable security markings are still
intact).

One of the reason I was going to replace the original speedometer is that I
have to replace either the existing cable or maybe the speedometer. The
current speedometer is reading about 5 miles an hour slower than it should,
and is very erratic. The needle does not move smoothly and jumps around
erratically.

What effected the value of your van, the fact that you changed the
speedometer or had to disconnect the cable?

I wanted to replace the existing clock with the tach as I find it a very
useful driving aid (not for shifting) but just for monitoring the engine
performance. Voltmeters, oil pressure and engine temperature will go in next,
but I would have to find a nice place to put them.

--Jeff

Jay L Snyder wrote:

> Your speedo should have the small shift points marked with small lines
> (I,II,III).  These are the "redlines" for each gear.   Everyone says they
> will never sell their Vanagon, but situations change.  Protect your
> investment.  An '82 with only 49K is extemely rare if indeed it is true
> miles.
>
>                                                             Jay