In a message dated 28/08/2006 6:00:12 P.M. Eastern Standard Time,
LISTSERV@GERRY.VANAGON.COM writes:

I plan to cross-post this to get mucho responses, so  apologies ahead of
time.......
I would like to know just how  major of a problem/disaster it is that my
exhaust system needs  replacing?  During  previous work on my '86 2.1L van I was
told of  probable upcoming exhaust problems. Well, "upcoming" came real soon,
like 2 or  3 days later, and now I sound like a noisy motorcycle. This same
mechanic told  me the costs could range from $4-500 up to $1000. Can anyone share
any  exhaust/muffler stories and offer advice to a non-mechanically-minded
nurse??

I am still seeking a  used westy interior in NW & No Cal region - am tired of
the Mickey-Mouse  job done on this van!  I would like the entire side unit
including  tables, etc. Anything to fit an '86 but can retro-fit.
ALSO - will consider  a handy/crafty/ carpenter type person to do custom
interior  ??!!??

We are in the  Portland OR area; the place I took "Blue Mongrel" to was
recommended via one  of my trusted listserv groups.  I am cautiously entering the
VW-woes  CLub, but have fixed income so this really sucks.
I find myself doing the  "woulda-coulda-shoulda shuffle"!

Any & all responses to list or  P-mail to help me with this are greatly
appreciated.

Anna, I would like you to consider using  my Vanagon Stainless Steel Exhaust
System.  Once installed correctly there  will be no more exhaust problems
except for changing the CAT, OXY Sensor and  Cast Iron collector when they wear
out.  The Emico CAT's are guaranteed for  5 years, how long they last depends on
how well your engine is running.   Same goes for the OXY sensor.  The OEM
cast iron collectors seem to last 10  ~ 15 years.  All other parts are stainless
steel and will last forever and  are Lifetime guaranteed.  Please see my
_STEBRO/Vanagon Stainless Steel  Exhaust System_
(http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/stebro.htm)  webpage for complete details, pricing and ordering  information. 5%
List Member discount applies, you must ask for it when ordering.

Cheers,

Frank  Condelli
Almonte, Ontario, Canada
'87 Westy, '90 Carat, '87 Wolfsburg  (Forsale) & Lionel Trains
Vanagon/Vanagon Westfalia Service in the Ottawa  Valley
_Frank Condelli  & Associates_ (http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/busindex.html)
_Vanagon Stainless Steel Exhaust  Systems_
(http://members.aol.com/Fkc43/stebro.htm)
_BusFusion_ (http://members.aol.com/BusFusion/bfhome.htm)  a VW Camper
camping event, Almonte, ON, June 07 ~ 10,  2007