> The failure rate doesn't seem to be anything above normal.
> I've for 312,000+ miles on my van and the starter goes out
> about every 100,000 miles or so; and the alternator goes at
> about the same rate.

If you're getting 100k+ miles per starter, then I certainly can't argue
with you, that's all the reliability one could expect. (Wow, how many
miles are on your van, if you've put 312k on it just since you bought
it!  Sounds like it's been a very reliable van for you all around.)
Your experience may not be typical though, from what I've seen/heard. I
get many customers who tell me of having gone through several
mass-produced aftermarket rebuilts in quick succession (and a couple on
this list have commented on it as well).  The  local VW repair shop has
also commented on it.

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  www.busdepot.com
  (215)  234-VWVW

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