Are the front shocks on a 86 Vanagon "McPherson?  Has anyone
replaced them before.  Of course someone has.

        I've never done McPherson Struts before.  Messing with big
springs sort of scares me.  Are the McPhereson strut tools universal?
Bunce Rental has one I can rent.  But how do I know it will fit?  I must
claim quiet a bit of ignorance here.  I haven't even looked at my Bently
yet.

        My Van has 150,000 miles on it now and I'm used to the rough
ride that has developed.  I only notice that I need new shocks when I
ride in a newer car that tends to ride much smoother.

        Also, are there some other things that I should tend to while
doing the Shocks?

        Any pointers, clues, hints are very much welcome.  thanks.