Someone said they would not recommend a Vanagon as a first vehicle.  I must
disagree.  My own first vehicle was a piece of crap, saved from the junkyard.
 Rust everywhere, head gasket blown, all hoses wasted.

I learned an incredible amount of automotive knowledge from that car, because
I had to.  I was too broke to get a real car.  Mother Necessity also had
another kid - Education.  Nothing like being broken down to teach some
valuable lessons.

(At this point I will disclaim that if you live in a nasty urban area, or in
the middle of nowhere in bad weather, this would not be a good education.
You will die.)

I still work on cars, to save money and because I enjoy it.  And if I do have
to take the cars in for service, I understand what is supposed to happen
under the wrench and can monitor any shoddy workmanship or rip-offs.  All
because of a crappy $35 car.

Bill Marshall
85 GL Tiico "Pandora's Box"
Aurora, IL