In a message dated 2/26/04 11:39:28 PM, vw4x4@FYI.NET writes:

<< . . . On my 1986 and newer Vanagons the
front seat belt spools are covered by this big strainge plastic thing.
My older 1980 Vanagon did not have this.  . . .  So I took it off.  . . .
 Now what is this for?    What a waste of money! >>

Good point, Eric.  I like things lean and mean, so I'm doing the same.
Whenever I installed my jumpseats, the first thing I did was to remove those
useless side covers.  And, that was right after I replaced the carpeting with rubber
matting.  Next thing is to find a replacement of those padded interior door
panels.

As to the why of such things, you have to remember that between 1980 and 1986
the Minivan Mentality appeared.  I guess VW was trying to appeal to that
group of Soccer Moms.  After all, look what those people have made of that once
honest vehicle, the humble pickup truck.

George