> I'm interested in whether I could install a central locking
> system in my Vanagon.

Sure - I used an aftermarket setup
(http://www.commandoalarms.com/itm10004.htm), with an immobilising alarm and
a remote lock / unlock.  The Vanagon has the older rod style locks.  While I
couldn't get the locking to work on the tailgate of my '85, I could set it
up as a remote release, so I just leave the tail locked, and push a button
on the dash or remote to unlock it :o)

I needed relays for the tailgate release, and the sliding door locks, as
they were too stiff for the pansy current that the controller sends out.

> Was that ever an option?

Yup, on the '86 onwards.

toodle pip,
--
       Dug Smith         | Eat well
(mailto:dug@dugbert.com) |  stay fit
(http://www.dugbert.com) |   die anyway