Every now and again, I check the Samba Vanagon listings, thinking about
getting started on another Van project for myself.  My 84 5sp, with a small
inline four gas motor and a partial camper interior, is totally satisfactory
for my summertime needs and as an everyday vehicle (except when it snows).
But, I've been wanting some "enhanced" features for  special circumstances.
I'll likely keep the 'regular' camper for it's mileage and it's low
maintenance, it's nice turning radius and it's "beat-ability"...(the body
and interior is suitable for hard use without too much worry.)  But I've
been wanting to do some kind of more powerful conversion,with a fancy custom
interior and either do it on a Syncro chassis or perhaps find a locking
differential and keep it 2wd..
  So, I peruse the Samba listings now and again.
   Is it just me, or do you all notice that some Vanagon owners/wannabe
sellers are perhaps a bit 'clue-less' when they post an asking price for
what they have?  I see stuff like "83 diesel, rare 5 speed, engine frozen,
some rust-through spots, stored in a barn for 5 years, interior needs work,
etc etc....$14,000..." Huh?
  Or some that have been listed since I got my 84 inline conversion almost 2
years ago (for $3000)...Still in there on the Samba...."Price reduced...85
Westphalia only $19,000, goo condition"..or some such....
  Weird!
  So, anybody have a Subie/Syncro in good shape for around $3000?  How bout
a motorless one near Portland, Or. for a reasonable price, or just the
locking diff?  A "parts-van"?
  Don Hanson