Well said Phaedra and John. My 87 has required no unscheduled repairs in
nearly two years now and I just passed the 181,000 mile mark on the original
WBX engine and head gaskets.

Recently I climbed Mt. Mitchell (highest mountain east of the Mississippi)
for the fourth time in less than two years while camping at the High Country
Bus Festival. In another two weeks I will be heading south to Florida with no
serious concerns nor reservations.

In short these are amazingly reliable and very long lived vehicles and
engines with proper maintenance and as Phaedra says "with proper attitude."
Incidentally, I prefer my well converted GL Weekender to the Westy version
for a number of reasons though I can easily see why the Westy is much better
suited for others.

Very Happy Vanagon Owner in West Virginia,
Mark Smith