Greetings amazing Vanagon community.  I joined the list 4 weeks ago and this
is my first posting/question.  I've been very impressed by the wealth of
knowledge and helpful people on the list.

I recently bought my first water-cooled vw, a 1984 westy full camper that
seems to be great.  PO really babied it and all is stock with rebuilt
engine, new clutch, fuel system, CV's, radiator & hoses, ignition switch &
wire, oxygen sensor, and catalytic conv. all replaced and well documented in
last 30K miles (196K total).

I've gotten very familiar with the van in the last four weeks, all works,
camping gear is great, etc and we're embarking on our first family trip this
weekend to Big Sur.

I'm getting excited about personalizing the van, however and want to begin
the process so have 2 immediate questions, one very specific and one
general.

1.  I found a set of 2 halogen lights this weekend at IKEA that I'd like to
put in the camper for extra light when camping.  They use 10 watt bulbs and
are designed for under-counter or recessed lighting in a cabinet.  They plug
into the wall using a transformer that converts 120v 60hz to an output of
12V AC 1.67A 20VA.  My question is, will these work in the vanagon if I
hardwire them to the 12V system(w/out the transformer).  The set was only
$9.95 so no big deal either way but they would be cool to have in the westy.

2.  general question-sure to create debate.  I have several mods in mind for
the Westy but am uncertain about the balance between stock and custom.  I'm
planning on keeping the Westy for some time but may want to upgrade at some
point.  Does keeping entirely true to stock increase value or do custom mods
i.e., solar system, custom upholstery, custom paneling increase or at least
not decrease value?

Thanks,

Martin