I did mine myself ('89 Vanagon).  I got a new pump for $61.82.  The
installation was a pain in the but because of the factory hose clamps (they
are hard to remove without the proper pliers).  Also, the pump is mounted on
studs and it takes a bit of jiggering to get it clear so that you can remove
it.  If fact the Bentley manual says, "The water pump can be removed without
removing the engine."  Which is code for it is going to seem impossible, but
you can get it out.

The job is not difficult, just a bit time consuming.  Especially since you
have to refill and bleed the cooling system.  It helps if you have a helper
when you get to this part!  

Just follow the instructions in Bentley and you'll be fine.

Lots of luck,

At 09:55 PM 6/28/96 -0500, you wrote:
>Hello All,
>
>I have a noise from my 1986 Vanagon engine compartment.  Upon further
>investigation I find that the waterpump bearing has a lot of play and is
>getting ready to let go.  Does anyone care to venture a guess at what this
>job could cost. I wonder if I can do it myself.
>
>Any ideas will be welcomed
>
>PaulC
>"Pumpless in Connecticut"
>
>
>
Bo Kersey
PGP Key available from http://www.four11.com
------------------------------------------
Coffee is the fuel of the information age.           
------------------------------------------