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Subject:Re: 86 Westy to buy
From:Alistair Bell
Date:Wed, 19 Apr 1995 07:51:35 -0700 (PDT)

Just some quick thoughts...

That interesting, a Wolfsburg edition with no sink or stove, but has
pop-top, is this some kind of "weekender"

> 1. The oil light came on after the engine was hot and at idle.
>    What does that indicate?
low pressure, worn bearings.

> 2. The rear chrome bumper has surface rust.
>    How much does a replacement bumper cost?
I have to guess that it would be cheaper to have it rechromed.

> 3. The body looks solid, but has a dent on the driver side and
>    has some surface rust.
Check carefully for rust under the van.
> 
> 4. The driver seat is tatered.
>    Are seat covers or replacement seats available?
I've stiched up the originals, not a long term solution.
> 
> 5. Part of the pop top seal has separated from the fiberglass.
>    How much does a new seal cost?
West Coast Metric makes replacements, about $150 (Canadian) for the big
one, much, much, cheaper than VW. Its supposed to have aluminum instead of
steel clips so that it won't rust out like the originals, but I don't know
if they fir aswell as the originals.

> 6. The ride was a little soft.
>    How much for shocks or struts? I don't know what type is used on 
>    Vanagons.

No struts, just shocks, various prices. Easy to replace the rears, more of
a pain to replace the fronts.

Alistair