Dave,
     86 was a much better year than 87 for AC.
It is likely that an early 87 will work for you as
well.
The main difference to look for is how the pipes mate
with the compressor.   Several styles for doing that
but easy to see the difference.
        hope this helps
Date:    Wed, 21 May 2003 19:08:47 -0700
From:    dave bowers <dave@DAVE-BOWERS.COM>
Subject: AC Compressor questions..

Hey Folks,

I just found out my the AC compressor in my 1986 Westy
needs to be
replaced
(or rebuilt). It has leaked my entire AC recharge.  A
nitrogen & R12
test
found a leak at the "front compressor seal"

I have a friend who has a good compressor from his
1988 Vanagon GL.
Would
any one know if a 1988 compressor might work in my
1986? I don't own a
Bentley manual (yet) but am going to pick on up soon
so I can do as
much of
the repair work that I can. I'd love to know if
compressors are easy or
difficult to remove and reinstall.

Would anyone know if a "front compressor seal" can be
repaired or
rebuilt?

I am trying to save as much money as I can if I get
this fixed.

Any suggestions or recommendations would be a great
help.

feel free to email me directly if you can help too.

Thanks much,

Cheers,
dave

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