Thanks for all the advice on tune-up intervals. The points/plugs, etc.
have not been changed in several years, but the engine is running well,
knock on wood (with the exeception of hard starting when hot, will get
to that after brakes). Since I am in the process of redoing the brake
system and have just replaced the starter and will be refurbishing the
interior over the winter I think I will go ahead and replace these
parts, it is the Deutche Methode, to quote our old compatriot Doktor Tim
(http://vw.upnorth.net/index.phtml?catid=75).
 
What does anyone think about leaving the van on jack stands for several
weeks? I will be refurbing the entire brake system and anticipate it
taking several weekends to get it done, in the meantime the wheels will
be off and the brakes in various stages of tear down and rebuild, and
the van will be on the jack stands. I have some decent 6 ton jack stands
but still feel a little reluctant to leave her up on stands for that
long, I mean, stuff happens. Any suggestions on what I might set her on
that may be more stable?
 
David Higginbotham
82 Westfalia
Silk Hope, NC