> We have an audible leak in our exhaust, and our idle has gone birserk
> (works fine when the ox sensor is disconnected).  This leads me to
> believe that the whole system is due for replacement.
> My question is this, are all replacements the same?  If I go to one of
> the 'muffler' places, will it mess up the performance as opposed to using
> parts ordered from the dealer or other sources (some on this list maybe).

While the muffler chains may be able to provide mufflers for the Vanagon, I
don't believe that most offer the entire Vanagon exhaust system.  The
original-style pipes are made by either Leistritz in Germany or Dansk in
Denmark, while the mufflers are made by various suppliers.  (The 1.9L
mufflers I sell are Italian made, while the 2.1L ones are South African.)
In terms of longevity, I have not noticed an appreciable difference between
the Dansk and Leistritz pipes other than cost.

I sell the complete system for the 1.9L for $299.95 (including all pipes,
muffler, and gaskets, but not including the catalytic converter, which is
$99 extra, or the nuts & bolts, which I don't sell but are readily
available locally).  The 2.1L system is $469.95, and the Syncro system
$549.95.  I believe these to be the best prices available for a high
quality original-style system.

- Ron Salmon
 The Bus Depot
 http://www.busdepot.com