If it's actually running and can be test driven,  list it on Craigslist
locally for $900 and see what happens.  If nothing, then list it again with
the title "Parting out running '85 Vanagon, test the parts you want NOW
before it's too late!"  Or, if they aren't paying attention at CL, list it
both ways at the same time.  Use a different email address for each ad
though or you might get busted for cross posting.

Happy selling!

Stuart
'85 Westy

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Jeff Lincoln
Sent: Tuesday, April 16, 2013 7:23 AM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Part out or Sell - your opinions

I have a friend who has an '85 GL hard top he is looking to get rid of.
It's just a thought at this point and he is debating selling it as is or
parting it out.

We've already done some quick and dirty math - and it's worth more $ as
parts. Still, it's a tough decision and I told him I'd get the general
thoughts of the list for him.

Details:
'85 GL hard Top
Original Engine - 100k-125k Miles
Manual Trans

Good:
New Stainless Coolant pipes
Great condition Tan Interior (GL rear seat and also a bed seat from an '86)
New Brakes New Gas Tank and seals Good trans No coolant leaks Good Running
engine (but there are some issues see below)

Bad:
Seam rust is getting a bit significant
Major oil leak (could be main seal - not sure A bit crusty (rusty)
underneath from sitting) Needs exhaust work (j-pipe rusted through) Hasn't
been driven regularly in about 5-7 years - mostly sitting

I know geography can effect these types of decisions too - we are in
Michigan - So the rust issue might be perceived as terrible in other places
- for this area I'd say it's mild to medium.

I would never consider parting out a Vanagon in most situations - this one
however is boarderline. It's absolutely worth more as parts and scrap than
as a whole. Just looking for your insight :)

Thanks,

Jeff
'85 GL (Gertie)
'78 Bus (Melissa) Patty's Bus