I have to agree with Don here, there's nothing wrong with the out-of-the-box
approach to Vanagon ownership other than its expensive and there are still
no guarantees (not that GoWesty won't stand behind their work, just that
they can't get you out of a bind in Belize).   The major advantage to
spending big in this case is that you're getting something that's
"finished".  There are probably very few things most of us would feel
comfortable altering on a $60k vanagon.  It's nice, but a lot like buying a
time share because you won't feel compelled to modify or customize or change
much about it.

I bought my diesel tin-top the November before last on eBay.  I had been
shopping for a van for a while and made my move for two big reasons.  First,
it was cheap!  Second, because it needed me.  Not that I need any more
projects, but my van has been a really fun one to work on.  Some of the work
I do, and because I'm not a wiz bang mechanic some of the work I have done
for me, but I'm involved in all the work and I'm learning something new all
the time.  Last year I had the pleasure of meeting Daryl Christensen (who
rebuilt my trans-axle) and Scott Foss (who built my new engine) for
instance; great guys who do really good work.

My van isn't cookie cutter either, in February I'll be turning it into a
Timber Tech high-top.  Later in the spring I get to improve my auto body
skills; strip it, treat it, prep it and shoot it.  I just fixed a persistent
coolant system leak for good!  Can't tell you how good that bit of work has
made me feel about my van and myself.  Last weekend I loaded up my wife and
our new baby and we took a short road trip along Highway 12 in the sunshine.
His first outing since we brought him home from the hospital in December.
Zeno performed like a rock star and while the interior is still a little
rough it's serviceable and comfortable enough.  My son Aral slept pretty
much the whole way.

In favor of the DIY path it's a lot of fun.  You may find yourself stuck on
the side of the road occasionally, but with the right attitude even that can
be enjoyable.

MT

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Don Hanson
Sent: Monday, January 17, 2011 2:29 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: first time buyer

The Northwest has to be one of the prime Vanagon areas.   Plenty around,
plenty of mechanics who can actually turn a wrench on vehicles like
Vanagons.  I got mine near Tacoma, Wa. about 4yrs ago now for $3k and I have
probably put another $3k into it..I will drive it anywhere with confidence
now, though she ain't real pretty.  Gets good fuel economy, carries all my
crap, has a westie kitchen and a bed but no pop-top and an inline four Jetta
motor..

   These things are 'all over the dartboard' for price and
dependability...You can get a Gold-plater from Go Westie for $60k or a POS
for free and put a motor into it.
 Personally, I like it that every part in my own van has been inspected by
me...replaced, when needed, by me.  I go places in my van where roadside
service is not.  Paying  big bucks for a Go Westie for a 'guaranteed 100%
restored vanagon' and then having some part fail in the Outback
somewhere...Not gonna do me much good, trying to get them to rescue me....I
have learned how to self-rescue...and I have replaced all the parts I have
doubts about...with about $50k left over..
  I'm not dissing fully restored vans sold by various businesses around...If
you have the cash and the inclination to drive around in a perfect looking
Vanagon, you'll still be ahead of any other similar vehicle available as
new, right now.
  Go for it..they are fun vehicles and pretty easy to manage.
  Don Hanson