George, having not followed the aftermarket for Vanagons in 5 years I don't know about the aluminum ones, I presume just made from regular fuel rail stock, if not exhorbitant� $$ probably a nice choice.� I would say this about the plastic oness though.� Eventually those things are going to start failing.� The newest set sold originally in a van is what 20 years old now.� Sure I'd guess VW kept making another 10 years or so, but chances are you are talking about putting in a 20+ year old part.� How long are those (even the ones with stainless ends) going to be still good for...�� Well do you still have the original plastic bulkhead fitting, if so why?
�
I've wondered about the sense of driving with these things for several years now, actually since�they were getting to be 15 years old or so.� Sure the later ones where the end doesn't rust off seem pretty bulletproof but for how long?� And I don't know the answer, I'm just saying.� Course I'm cheap, and would probably go with them.� Same goes for the plastic "hard" lines BTW, I wonder about those.� I mean just what was the design life expected to be, same a the plastic coolant lines?
�
John
 

________________________________
 From: George Laubach <skiplaubach@COMCAST.NET>
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM 
Sent: Saturday, December 31, 2011 2:25 PM
Subject: Which fuel distribution manifold?
 
84 Westy 1.9L WBXR Manual

I need to replace my original fuel distribution manifolds. 

Preference? The alternate aluminum units from our esteemed suppliers? Or a pair of used black plastic ones (OE)?

Thank you for your opinions and why's.

Skip
Elgin, IL

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