Marc, speaking as arguably the most anxiety-ridden fellow on the list, I
can say that paranoia is probably not required but a healthy dollop of
preparedness is really, really smart.

The advice given here is spot-on. These guys know their stuff. Listen to
them.

I'd add that you might want to pack a Magic 8-Ball in working order to
look ahead and see what's likely to break next; and a credit card with
some reserve on it. On our first camping trip out of town -- a lovely
few days on the upper Kern River -- one of the CV joints developed
symptoms of imminent failure. A Kernville mechanic (on a Sunday!)
diagnosed the problem, pumped in extra grease or did some other Band-Aid
fix, and sent us on our way. 95% of my trips don't have any mechanical
issues. The other do.

To me, it's a challenge and something for personal growth. I reckon I
either continue to overcome the obstacles, or wimp out and get something
boring but more reliable. But I love my Vanagon Westy for camping, so
I'm forging ahead. Like a man. Or an idiot; it's unclear.

--
Jack "Rocket j Squirrel" Elliott
1984 Westfalia, auto trans,
Bend, Ore.