The pictures of the engine fire burned Westy on Samba brought this to mind.

When I worked for the Corps of Engineers years ago, in buildings that
were metal beam construction always had their beams treated with a spray
-on protective coat of some some sort. The intent of this material was
to protect from the heat of a fire to aid in preventing bending of the
beams due to heat.

In the pottery world, we use a spay on coating to line the kilns called
ITC,  This material is pretty amazing in that it is such a teriffic
insulator. There is a version of ITC appropriate for metals. I would
think this would provide some fire protection in the rear of the van if
applied to the engine bay are.  Just something to think about. It might
prevent an engine fire from spreading all over.and keep it contained to
engine bay by not allowing the heat to reach and ignite materials
outside the engine bay.

    * *ITC 213 Ceramic Coating for Metals.  *This is an outstanding
      product especially formulated to protect /metals and graphite,
      including those exposed to molten metals/.  It helps to prevent
      stainless steel and steel parts from erosion, oxidation and
      fatigue from prolonged use.  Use also to repair damaged areas.
      (*This material is a /long lasting/ coating for your steel pipe
      crucibles!)
      *

This material has proven itself in the ceramics industry.

John Rodgers
88 GL Driver