I'm looking at a syncro westy and have a few questions as 4x4 VW's
are all new to me.
This appears to be an 87 or so (grey interior), manual. The front
stabilizer bar is not attached at the ends. It is there and mounted
to the frame but not attached to the front suspension. How big a
problem is this?

How do I check whether the 4wd is functioning properly?  What to look
for in terms of problems?

There is a vertical "canister" in front of the drivers side rear
wheel. What is this?

What is the round knob on the dash under the 4 wheel line drawing?

Is there a web site that deals with syncro issues?

  TIA. I'm sure I will have many more questions if I buy it.

Oh yes, what is the value of something like this. No visable rust,
250 000 Km.