This by no means a comparison to the Suby diesel, and I'm not touting
one conversion over another, but in terms of mods done.....

Were I to put my '81 up for sale tomorrow, I'd be interested to see
what kind of buyer would be interested. The obvious appeal is the
newer different engine (an improvement over the engine that was in
there). But.... the buyer would likely have to be the type that wants
to be involved with the van beyond turning the key and going,
appreciates things like renewed pedal cluster parts and heater fan,
and be ok with some rust and dents. They'd also be someone who doesn't
mind a modified lower bunk.       ;)

But you're right IMO. The memories created should be the goal. In my
case, the engine has only once let me down and I was lucky to get home
easily after that. Otherwise, the investment of time and $ has been
well worth it. I've had quite a few long reliable trips in my  bus.

Neil.

On 11/14/13, Stuart Fedak VE3SMF <ve3smf@yahoo.com> wrote:

> .....  Sticking with a well documented restoration, using as many original
> parts most likely has the best re-sale value (financial) in the long term.
> RV dealer lots are usually littered with well meaning vehicles that have
> been modified.  They usually are stuck in the back lot, covered in dust.
>
> If you love your Westy, and just want to keep on with a more reliable
> engine/drivetrain, then by all means do the work, and enjoy.  The ultimate
> object is to take the vehicle on the road and have an adventure.  The
> financial aspects are secondary.  If your personal budget permits this
> upgrade, then go for it.  The real payback may be your collection of photo
> of you and your ride, parked along the side of the road, in a campground,
> doing stealth camping, camping at Wal-Mart or being off the grid.

--
Neil n

Blog: tubaneil.blogspot.ca

'88 Westy http://tinyurl.com/c8rlw6p

'81 VanaJetta 2.0 "Jaco"  http://tubaneil.googlepages.com/

Vanagon VAG *Gas* inline-VR Engine Swap Group:

http://tinyurl.com/d7gd5ej