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Subject:Re: 82 diesel damp interior
From:Stuart MacMillan
Date:Wed, 26 Feb 2014 09:28:59 -0800

I'm in the PNW too, and it can be a problem.  Usually black mold/mildew
spots form on the roof every winter, but not anymore, I've found a solution.

First thing is replace the front and rear hatch window seals along with
antenna entry, they are the major problems after 30 years.

Next, often the plastic sheet sealing the inside of the front doors has been
removed or cut up, and this can let water in and collect in the door foot
wells and under the seats and carpet.  Remove the panels and replace or tape
it back on.

Last, Bus Depot sells a cover: http://www.busdepot.com/a0273    I have no
experience with this one, but I use a cover on my MGB, and they are
breathable but keep the water out.  They work well up here, and this is your
easiest solution and will also keep the moss off the roof!

You can clean mold off the fuzz on the top with a commercial mold cleaner,
but use painter's plastic to cover EVERYTHING in the van, being especially
careful to cover the canvas and seats since they usually contain bleach.
Then use a home upholstery vacuum type cleaner to finish it off.

Then the key is to soak the clean top with an organic mold retardant. I use
this one and have no more mold:
http://www.homedepot.com/p/Concrobium-32-oz-Mold-Control-025326/100654126  I
sprayed most of a quart on mine and let it dry.

Stuart
In Mossback country

-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of
Dana Mueller
Sent: Tuesday, February 25, 2014 7:21 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: 82 diesel damp interior

Hi Folks,

Where do I start to address dampness inside the vehicle. I live in the
PacNW. It's pretty bad in the seats and windows etc

Thanks in advance,

-dm