Hello,

My friend purchased an '81 AC westy in PA today and hit the road for NC.
Unfortunately I didn't know about this adventure until after it was underway
and couldn't recommend that he take tools etc.  His report is that he
started to notice a loss of power and then pulled over within a few miles.
At that point he called me and it sounded like he had overheated the engine
(he has no temp guage).  After letting it become cool again the van would
not crank.  He said he smelled gas but the van didn't crank after turning it
over with the fuel pump disconnected then reconnected afterwards (it did hit
a few times).  He has done a basic inspection and hasn't noticed any
cracked/loose hoses etc. He has no tools and very little knowledge of VW's
or Air Cooled engines though he does have a small ammount of mechanical
knowledge.  He is a super friendly guy and inspite of his situation is still
enjoying his new van.  If anyone is in the area and can help (I am currently
in W. TN :( )  he would be most grateful.

His name is David Preston and his cell number is 828-273-7096.  He is
located at the rest area just south of the I95 and hwy 32 intersection
almost exactly in between Baltimore and DC.  I have given him a few numbers
of Baltimore AIRS members.  If his status changes I will notify the list.

Thanks for any help or suggestions

Jonathan Poole
'82 Westy