I had the opportunity to help with my son's 84 Westy in trying to solve his
MAJOR squeak and knocking in the front end.
In an attempt to solve the problem, he had the ball joints redone about two
weeks ago by a reputable shop in Columbus. They apparently overlooked the
disintegrating left UCA bushing (right one seems fine).  We put it up in the
air and I was amazed at the play in the bushing.  Perhaps the new ball
joints may have accentuated the movement, thus causing the bushing to fail
very quickly (?).
Short version is that I had the bushings on hand in preparation for doing my
87 Westy's front end; so the parts were available.
The ball joints, being new, came right off and the through bolt was only
finger tight from all the bouncing, I assume.  Anyway, after removing the
UCA, the old bushings pounded out nicely once the weld spots were cut.  A
bit of brightening of the UCA bushing sockets and the new bushings went in
with a little pressure from the 30 ton press.
Tomorrow, after the re-welding and checking/repacking all of the wheels
bearings, I expect the van handle much better. This was my first time doing
this job on a Vanagon.  It was not that hard.
Thanks to all who replied to my inquiry last week regarding the UCA issues.
--
Stephen
Chillicothe OH