I know what you are saying about the wet spots. When I fill the gas  
tank it overflows out of the bottom. I had the reseal kit from  
Vanagain installed last year but the ignorant NYC mechanic I took it  
to did not install any of the new rubber they gave me! so now I have  
to have it all done again to reinstall the new rubber. Now I just know  
how much to fill it and don't fill all the way to prevent the overflow.

Several years ago I lost my first Van a blue late model carat to an  
engine fire in Rockefeller center in NYC in Decemeber of 2001. It was  
my worst nightmare come true. Right after 911 and news and tv were  
there. Tons of fire department people etc. I could have save the van  
if they let me close the rear engine bay hatch but thats another story.

To say the least I am very cautious with the leaks and looking under  
the van. I am having all my fuel lines replaced when we reinstall the  
rebuilt engine. Also replacing the line that runs to the gas tank via  
the firewall, making it continuous line, removing that plastic T. Also  
replacing all the engine bay coolant hoses as well. Just replaced the  
plastic coolant T last summer as it blew out on my as I was driving in  
the mountains upstate to a concert. It sucked. I waited for AAA for 4  
hours to be flatbed.

So I always looks. Does not matter if people think you are not nots,  
you just cautious and proactive so I hear ya.

Rob
NY

On Apr 14, 2009, at 11:30 AM, Bill Shawley wrote:

>
>
> Always check for the "wet" spot before getting in, this applies to  
> vans and beds....
>
>
>
> Seriously though, people probably think I'm nuts, peering underneath  
> the van at every stop..
>
>
>
> Ryan
>
>
>
>
>
>> Date: Tue, 14 Apr 2009 08:03:51 -0600
>> From: mtbiker62@GMAIL.COM
>> Subject: Re: Cross Country Travel Tips Wanted
>> To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
>>
>> "Do a 'walk around' the van and check things visually
>> while filling up."
>>
>> I'd forgotten that I automatically/unconsciously do the
>> "look-under-the-van-for-wet-spots" before pulling out, and I seem to
>> look for them on the ground as I'm driving onto the stop-spot where
>> I'll fuel up or park for my bio-break before going inside.
>>
>> bob
>> '87 Syncro Westy
>
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