Gordon:  Replace ALL of the fuel lines NOW (
http://www.vanagain.com/ has a kit).  Old fuel lines are the #1 cause
of engine box fires.  Change ALL of the fluids (tranny, oil, coolant
etc).  Change ALL filters (oil, fuel). Tires aligned and balanced. Be
sure that your tires are Light Truck (LT) NOT passenger tires.  New
plug wires, plugs etc.  Try the Pertronix ignition - works fin on my
van.
http://www.pertronix.com/ignition/index.htm   Carry a spare fuel
pump. That's it in a nutshell.  Good luck.   M

On 30 Mar 2002 at 13:30, Gordon Smith wrote:

> Hi everyone,
>
> I've just bought an 86 Westfalia, with the intention of driving it
> around the U.S. in about a month. I've never owned a Vanagon before,
> and I've never gone on any extended van-camping trips before either.
>
> While I'm reasonably mechanically capable and have travelled (by
> train/bus/boat) fairly extensively, I was wondering if there are any
> outstanding tips, warnings, idiosyncrasies or useful
> upgrades/additions/tools that you might share with me before I take
> off.
>
>  I'm particularly interested in the best ways to use the
>  stove/fridge/sink,
> beds and cabinets to make the Westy a comfortable home away from
> home.
>
> I'm realize that this is a little bit like asking you to tell me
> basically the entire contents of this mailing list--but if there are
> any anecdotes like "The best purchase/fix/option I ever got was..." or
> "This made my life easier", or even "This ruined my trip",  I'd
> appreciate it.
>
> Last of all, if you know of ANY book that covers travelling in,
> operating and maintaining the water cooled Vanagons, I'd love to hear
> about it...
>
> Thanks a lot for your time and your great mailing list!