Hey, Folks:  I'm new to the list, so have a bunch of questions.  I'm in the
process of purchasing a '85 Vanagon with 129K on the odo from the original
owner, who bought it in Germany while stationed there and had it shipped
stateside when he got out.  Seems to be in good shape, other than needing
tires and a water pump.  My questions: 1) Is the fact that this was a van
built for the German market going to make it a hassle to buy parts here? (2)
What should the water pump replacement cost?  Local VW guru wants $240 parts
and labor, VW dlr. wants $405 (not!), and a "foreign car" mech says he'll
install it for $175 if I'l get the pump.  Sounds like the latter wins,
prompting question (3) CarQuest will sell me a life-time warrantied pump for
$58...any reason NOT to go for it?  (4), regarding tires:
what does 185R14 convert to so as not to mess up the speedometer?  70 series?
Do I need "reinforced" tires?  My '96 Nissan Quest weighs 4K pounds and runs
on regular old 205/75/15's. Finally, where do I get mail-order parts?  Has
anyone had any luck with J.C. Whitney?  Sorry this is so long.  Any input
appreciated.
Doug Dewitt
Hendersonville, NC
"Newby"