>  I am wondering if any list members have had any experience with
these heaters: tips etc.

Turn it on once at least once month.  They seem to decay from nonuse.
I've seen the electric water pump and the combustion blower seize up
from corrosion.

http://www.telusplanet.net/public/gary2a/rack/bbw46/BBW46.htm

Gary Lee

web site www.vwrack.com