on 7/1/04 18:57, Michael Rule at mikerule@UFL.EDU wrote:

> Hi Ya'll,
>
> Silly Question, but I thought it would be an interesting survey-
> and one that is simply opinion-based, so no one can accuse right
> or wrong answers- but hey- feel free to tell me not to post
> useless drivel like this if you're so inclined!
snip
 > --as I feel after 5wks of ownership of an 84 Westy?
What a great thread!
Michael, you have hinted at both the strengths and the weaknesses of the
Vlist in one succinct and erudite post.
The strengths are the overwhelming experiences of the members of this List.
The weaknesses are the underwhelming experiences of the members of this the
List.
I would advise you as someone early on suggested to me...
"Spend at least as much time driving your van as reading and researching
about it."
And a la "My little road trip", the post that shortly followed yours...
My first Westy was an 84 that I bought with the help of a fellow listee at
the other end of a 2000 mile flight.  He was afraid to drive it 800 mile to
his next workplace. I bought it and drove home; and 20k miles later my son
is prepping it for another cross country trip.
The more you know about how fix on your van, the better you'll be able to
deal with its quirks.
I trust mine as well or better than any 17 year old vehicle on any road out
there.
Stephen Steele*
Chillicothe OH

'87 Westy      "Franz"
'82 Caddy VW Diesel P.U.     Unknown future????
'74 MGB  My first car...yep, I've kept it since '74
'93 Chevy S-10
'91 Jetta Diesel   My daily driver
'02 Jetta Wagon VR6  Wife's car
Ex Vans:
'91 Caravelle  "Hans"...1995-2003
'84 Westy now with #1 son
'81 Vanagon  from 1985-1990
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