How did I find the list?

In 1995, after coveting a friend's Westy for a few years, I undertook a
search for one in good shape.  Using the Internet, I found a 1991 (that I
still have) that was in Connecticut by way of Maine.  We drove up to look at
it and drove it home that day.  Unbelievably, it had been pampered, had been
rust proofed with Waxol and to this day shows no signs of body rust.

So how did I find the list.  OK, cover your eyes for the next part.  I
needed to replace the original tires and wanted the correct tires.  After
the owner of a local tire dealer tried unsuccessfully to sell me passenger
car tires with a maximum tire pressure of 35 and said to just inflate them
to 40 psi, I knew I needed professional help.

So after a search on the Internet for Vanagon people, I found the website of
Harry Yates from BC who had a link on his website to the mailing list (
vanagon@lenti.med.umn.edu). Old timers surely must remember Harry.  He kept
meticulous care of his Syncro Westy and posted a lot to the list.  But, he
just seemed to disappear and I haven't seen his name in years.  After
subscribing to the list, from someone I ordered the silver oval stickers
with the vanagon@lenti.med.umn.edu address and put one on the van to help
spread the word.

At that time, Uncle Joel was doing the weekly reports.  Subscribing to the
list has enabled me to take better care of the van and also has made me a
little paranoid.  I expect to break down at any moment, but to date have
never been stranded.  I attribute my good fortune to all of the list advice
and knowing what to do as preventive maintenance.

In late 1996, Tom Forhan put together the Propex group purchase and I joined
in and convinced a friend of mine to also get one.  Over the years, that
single purchase has made camping in the van much more enjoyable.

I remember the email to the list when Ron announced that we was starting the
Bus Depot and have been to Ken Wilfords place to have work performed on the
van.

And all of the trip reports have been an inspiration to us to make some
significant trips in our van and I am already thinking about next summers
trip.   One day, during future trips, I hope to stop by and see Ron at Bus
Depot, Daryl at AA Transaxle, Benny Boy, and others.  So much to do and so
little time.

Harold
___
Harold & Faye Teer
1991 Westy (Vangaux)
Harrisonburg, VA

Anyone else want to share their memories?
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