I'm a recent purchaser of an '84 Westy I categorize as a Rescue Westy
since it doesn't run and needs TLC.  I'll explain more about it
another time, but let me get to my question right away.  I've spent
some time perusing the volumes of web information, but I'm going to
take the easy way out and ask the list.

It doesn't even have a battery so I'd like to know what I should
purchase and/or what to avoid.  I live in Olympia, WA so it won't be
subjected to extreme cold or heat on a consistent basis.  No A/C
either.  At this point I need something to make the flashers work
while I tow it home plus give me some power while I work on it this
winter.

One other question about engine replacements.  On the web, I recall
finding a chart that listed Vanagons by year and feasible engines, but
I can't locate it now.  All I can find is at
http://www.volkswagen.org/vanagon/engineswap.htm so I don't know if I
really saw such a chart.  Can anyone help?

I look forward to being a Westy owner and participating in
discussions.

Kevin