In a message dated 9/14/02 11:47:58 PM, winniethepooh@ATTGLOBAL.NET writes:

> I just purchased my first van, a '86 Vanagon GL with 68,000 miles.
> I have a few questions. First I have discovered a minor scratching sound in
> the column when turning the steering wheel. There is no play in the
> steering. PS leak?
> Second, the headlights work fine but when I hit the highbeams my headlights
> go out on the driver side. any ideas? as simple as a fuse?
>

In addition to the previous comments:

If the ignition switch was ever replaced on the 86, it is possible that the
installer (like myself) didn't put the steering column in with sufficient
clearence. It is a minor thing, but the noise can irritate folks. Basically,
its the plastic of the housing rubbing against the steering wheel plastic.

Yes, you could have the fuse blown on the driver side high beams. The 86 has
TWO high beams per side (rectangular headlights). The inner headlight is high
beam only. The outer is both high and low beam. If both aren't working, it is
likely a fuse. If only one isn't working, it is probably a bulb.