Hi Dave,

It sounds like you know what you want, so why settle for an 83, which is
either the best-of-the-worst (first half year of production, air-cooled) or
the worst-of-the-best (second half of the year is watercooled)?    Now that
said the 83.5's worst flaw may have been its improperly sealed factory
motor, so if you're on a replacement you may be in better shape. Still, I
see a marked difference in the amenities that my late model van gives me
(a/c, power steering, nicer interior) so I stuck to my guns and waited until
what I want came along. Which is, of course, easier to do in California than
Pittsburgh.

At any rate, an 83 full westy with replacement motor where I live might
fetch $5000 in damn near great condition. You live in the rust belt, and if
it's a rustbucket it's probably not even worth your time, unless you're
really into body repair.

Just my opinion,
Peter

On Mon, Jul 26, 2010 at 12:44 PM, Peters, David Gerard <dgp6@pitt.edu>wrote:

> Hi All
>
> Just discovered this list.  Excellent stuff!!
>
> I am a newby to Vanagons.  Being a Brit I have owned Land Rovers and
> unreliable English sports cars (all rough).
>
> I am now living in Pittsburgh and have been looking endlessly for a Westy
> nearby.  I was hoping for a late model full camper with a 2.1 engine but
> have seen a 1983 model nearby.  It is described as being in good condition
> and has had replacement engine and clutch although neither went in recently
> (50k miles ago).
>
> Can anybody advise as to a sensible price range?  What should I be looking
> out for when I view it?
>
> Thanks
>
> Dave