Hi Gordon,

In a word; Hoses. Check all the water hoses carefully, and replace
any that obviously need it (or better yet, replace them all -
www.busdepot.com or www.vanagain.com for whole sets). Alternately,
carry lenghts of 1/2", 3/4", 1" and 1 1/2" heater hose (with
clamps). With these you can cobble together most of what might
break on the Westy. Just be aware...you will find NO water hoses in
stock, *anywhere*, dealer or no. Found this out the hard way with
the first trip in my '86 Westy.

Keith Hughes
'86 Westy, Marvin
Phoenix, AZ

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!