I so totally love the Vanagon List.  Back 15 years ago or so I discovered it.  Made all the difference in trying to decide what to do with my ancient car.  So many words of wisdom.  Definitely kept me in the game, with gusto!

So...now there is that new-fangled thing....Facebook.  Specifically...Vanagon Owners Group.
I recommend that you give it a try.  Easy to open a Facebook account.  You don't even have to supply many details, nor pictures, etc.
This Facebook Vanagon Owners Group thing is kind of in a transforming mode.  Sure...all the usual stuff like replacing fuel injection hoses with a new van.  But as time goes on, the folks there are starting to deal with the nitty-gritty.  And lots of innovative ideas.  Also...plenty of stuff for your daily Vanagon Fix.  My hope is that you would give it a try at least.
When I first joined, there were 9,500 members.  Now, there are above 12,500 members.
I think it is a good thing.  BenT is one of the administrators (to add some credibility).
Rich
San Diego