In a message dated 3/27/2006 5:08:17 PM Pacific Standard Time,
jeff@VANAGONPARTS.COM writes:

>Damn!  I want to meet the guy who did the van to doka  conversion.  That's
>some of the nicest original looking bodywork  I've ever seen.

Since there's an interest in this kind of conversion, I'm willing to  take up
task. You'll have to supply me with the Van and the syncro Doka in  pristine
shape for all needed donor parts. I haven't figured out a price yet,  but I
already have a drill and a rivit gun. The entire job should take about 5
minutes--but I have to insist you don't watch while I'm doing the body work and  the
installation of the syncro parts. ;)

I will say though, it's odd that (if I recall) some US companies used to be
able to get away with importing new 2000 Mexican Beetles into the US and use a
 70's US registered Beetle's floor pan and VIN for the base of the Mexican
Beetle  in a conversion. Then install the Mexican Beetle body and all components
on  the US registered floor plan and have a "restored 70 Beetle" legally
registered.  I mean is that how it was done with the Mexican imports, or is that a
myth as  well?

I'm guessing the real problem is the buracracy, but what's the difference  in
an 88 Vanagon in a driveway or an 88 Crew Cab from Canada? If it's the engine
 and emissions--couldn't an American spec engine from 88 be installed in the
Crew  Cab and it be all good? I'm guessing the safety systems are identical as
far as  seat belts and bumpers and whatever else a car had to meet for US
import in 88.

And I guess what I don't get is where does the old car end and the restored
or rebuilt car begin? If my, for example, 69 Camaro has all new fenders,
drive train, interior, new rear, etc. Let's say I even lift a more solid  body
from a junker and fit it to my original Camaro frame, weld on a new front
end--basically the only thing original is the VIN plate. Am I missing something?

Best,
Jeff
83.5 Westy (I don't actually have a Camaro--it was just a "for  example")
LA,CA