> wanted the VIN to run to see if it was affected by recall.  I
don't remember
> any reading any recall notices for the ECU, but he seemed
pretty sure and
> was checking it out.  Of course, mine will not be one of the
vehicles
> affected...

there was a recall on the 86-87 buses, Recall Campaign PB. dated
about May1987.
it involves 1986 through early model 1987 Vanagon, Camper and
Syncro models.
it involves replacing ...
- the fuel tank (251-201-019 for non-syncros)
- fuel tank evaporative hoses.
- idle control unit (from VIN GG 000 001 (syncro, 1986) - HG 031
747 (syncro, 1987)
  VIN GH 000 001 (non-syncro, 1986) - HH 038 717 (non-syncro,
1987) )
  part number 251-907-393B (green sticker/paint on unit)
- the digifant control unit (computer)
  from VIN range GG 000 001 (1986 syncro) - HG 031 747 (1987
syncro)
 and VIN range GH 000 001 (1986 non-syncro) - HH 041 180 (1987
non-syncro)
note that this is NOT the same VIN range for the non-syncros as
on the idle control unit. go figure.
new part number is 025-906-022 (yellow paint/sticker)
- restrictor valve (on vacuum line attached to Air flow meter).
 VIN range GG 000 001 (1986 syncro) - HG 031 747 (1987 syncro)
 and VIN range GH 000 001 (1986 non-syncro) - HH 029 602 (1987
non-syncro)
again, a different range on the non-syncros.
- reroute charcoal cannister hoses ... vin range GH 001 001 - HH
029 602 (non-syncros only)

the reason given for the recall is driveability problems
related/caused by 'Reid pressure of the fuel and vapor lock
caused by it. i had this happen to me (vapor lock, in colorado
springs, in rush hour traffic) with an 86. after the recall was
applied to the bus, it never happened again.

but if you have an 88, i kinda doubt if this will apply. :(

good luck!
joel