According to the archive files the change occured in '84...

Cory
'86 Westfalia

On Fri, 24 Jan 1997 SyncroHead@aol.com wrote:

> In a message dated 97-01-24 06:29:16 EST, zeidler@NTCNTG02DU.ntc.nokia.com
> (Zeidler Helmut NTC/Dusseld.) writes:
> 
> > >I was looking for new pad that covers the engine and completes the lower
> >  >bed in my Camper.  Any suggestions?
> >  
> >  Try to get a pad from a Diesel where available. They are made of plastic
> >  and not as heavy as the steel ones. I guess they will be reduce the
> >  engine noise better because the  denoiser is glued onto it. I used the
> >  plastic to raise a part of the lid. I will send you part# if required.
> 
> I believe the original request was concerning the bed cushion that can be
> placed on top of the engine compartment, not the engine lid itself.  I'd hate
> to sleep on a steel one!   :)
> 
> Concerning the engine lid though, all later models (87+) I've seen came wth
> the plastic lid, while and 82 diesel's I saw came with the heavy metal lid.
>  I think VW changed over sometime between 82 & 86 from metal to plastic on
> all the lids.
> 
> Does anyone know when this change was made?
> 
> Regards,
> Jim Davis
> 87 GL Syncro
> 88 GL Wolfsburg
>