> I have a 1985 with 180,000 miles.  The front suspension is making
> a rattling noise when I go small bumps.

The last I had a rattle in my front suspension of my '85 the a-arm bushings
were shot.  I've replaced those and the rattle went away.  It's easy to
check.  Just jack up the front of the van, taking all necessary precautions,
and see if the back of the a-arm can be moved around.  You may also want to
check tighteness of the camber adjusters which go through the bushings
themselves.

Good luck!

Chris S.
'85 Westy
www.knology.net/~vw/
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wolfsburg_campers