> Hi, recently I took my 85' Vanagon on the highway,(just got it about 2
> weeks ago) and noticed that the wind was pushing me all over. I know,
> and figured that this was expected owning one, but I didn't think that
> it would be to this extent. It wasn't a windy day, but at times (pretty
> much constant) I had to hold the wheel for dear life. I didn't really
> think that this was normal. Any suggestions? I did notice however that
> with alot of weight in it, it didn't really do it too bad at all. (we
> had gone to get a rear/bed seat, and some other stuff, and the ride home
> was heavy)

I remember when I first got my van.  I bought it in San Fran CA.  After
buying it, I drove accross the bay bridge and thought I was going to blow
into the ocean.  I was seriously freaked out.

Now, I'm used to the blowing and it doesn't bother me so much.  I still
don't like it, but it doesn't surprise me so much.  It actually amazes me
how little wind it takes to push me van significantly.

>     Also I noticed that when I first start it at any time during the
> day, that it doesn't idle very nice. In fact heres what it does....I
> start it, the tach/idle goes down and either stalls (so I have to hold
> the accelerator down) or catches itself right before it stalls. If it
> catches it makes this horrible belt squealing sound, then I step on the
> gas, and it will wind and stop making the noise at about 2 tach. The
> funny thing is that even when driving, it will do this when I'm in
> neutral until the engine is good and warm. I figured it was no biggie,
> but it sure is annoying, and might turn into a biggie, and I would
> prefer to fix it before it does. Again any suggestions?

I would:

- change the temperature sensor and O2 sensor.  Maybe they are ok, but if
you just bought it, these are good things to put in. changing them is
relatively cheap ($50-60) and would be good.

- tighten the belt.

- increase the idle setting by turning the idle screw on the throttle.

- check my timing.

- get used to a rough idle -- my van idles quite a bit rougher then I
would like, but I think I've got it to an acceptable level of roughness.

- if none of the above work, change or bypass the idle stabilizer.

good luck,
blake