>I discovered that the spare tire in my '91 GL was purloined by a
> prior owner, so -- I'm in need of a 14" steel wheel.  I called
> around
> local salvage yards with no success.  Please let me know if you have
> one, or know of a good source.

one thing to be aware of ... that 14" steel wheel is the exact same
one on vw buses from 1971 to 1991. yup. same part number and all.

so you can pick and choose according to rust/condition from any of
those years ... doesn't have to be the same year as your vanagon.
i had some shipped from oklahoma for like $25 each, but it's been a
while.

www.car-part.com shows some 1977 and 1984 steel wheels for $20/each at
archies auto recyclers in merrillville,indiana
(219) 769-2441
888-886-0118
archiesautorecyclers@comcast.net

but there should be some a lot closer to you ... check the yellow
pages locally. check out
http://www.junkyarddog.com/listings.htm
for listings of junkyards in your state.

hope it helps. good luck!
unca joel