The ring that I have is plastic with a little orange stripe around it.  I
am gonna go grab it bcuz I think it has a part number on the bag.  Be right
back...
I'm back.  Couldn't find it.  Gonna go look in the van.  C ya.
Michael in San Antonio
91GL Weekender AT 2.1L 'Gringo'

On Sun, Feb 24, 2013 at 12:44 PM, neil n <musomuso@gmail.com> wrote:

> If I'm thinking of the same part, that ring may act as a bearing
> surface of sorts to help keep the handle from wearing prematurely
> (i.e. cracking and breaking). Then again, that may be a long term
> concern, and may be more of an issue with the older style harder to
> actuate door latch (up to '84).
>
> I know Alistair Bell here on the list made that ring and may have pics
> in his blog. (can't see them though)
>
> Since you have part in hand, maybe worth getting someone with a lathe
> to copy it? Heck, thinking now, I have to wonder if one could make one
> out of PVC bits and proper adhesive.
>
> Neil.
>
> On Sun, Feb 24, 2013 at 8:21 AM, Michael Sullivan
> <sandwichhead@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> > ..... Also need an opinion...I have the NLA
> > ring that goes around the exterior slider handle. It is brand new.
> Should I
> > go ahead and use it or save for later?  Thought I would put it on after
> > painting it sometime in the future.  Thanks for the advice
>
>
>
> --
> Neil n
>
> 65 kb image Myford Ready For Assembly  http://tinyurl.com/64sx4rp
>
> '88 Slate Blue Westy to be named.
>
> '81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"  http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/
>
> Vanagon VAG Gas I4/VR Swap Google Group:
>
>
> http://groups.google.com/group/vanagons-with-vw-inline-4-cylinder-gas-engines
>