Great message and travels.  After being a BMW rider (as well as other more performance orientated European motorcycles) and enthusiasts it is good to read a positive report.

It is way too easy to forget that we are  enthuatiasts first (IMO) as there are a number of more practical vehicles out there. If you find your Vanagon more trouble and/or money than it's worth move to F--- on. Get over it and find a solution or substitution. 

As with the BMW club we are made up of perfectionists in drag. I guess venting is  fashionable as well as healthy but that's not me. Drive it and love it or hitch hike home and quit your bitchin'.

Just my 2ct's worth...

Bob Allen
86 Syncro Wolfsburg (kinda)
88 Westy FS