Make sure you have the A/C compressor checked. I bought my 87 Westy from a
retired minister who told me the reason the A/C wasn't cold was that it
needed a recharge. I found out later that the compressor had been
disconnected because it needed to be replaced. Cost me $800 to have it
rebuilt.

>All:
>
>I'll be looking at this 1986 Westfalia Syncro this afternoon. Any and all
>comments on price ($9500), the high miles (172k), etc. would be appreciated.
>I'll look at all receipts today and schedule a mechanic if it looks good...
>
>THe owner bought the van for a road trip three months ago. The engine had just
>been rebuilt. He experienced leaking heads down in Texas so got the heads
>replaced under warrantee, cost $1750. His claims:
>
>Great condition with all records since new. Much new including tires, head
>gaskets, brakes, batteries, and rack and pinion. It had a trans rebuild at
>~100K. AC is in need of a recharge.
>
>Mileage: 15-20 mpg. 15 around town and on the highway when very windy. I'm
>able to get 20+ on the hwy if 65-70 mph. Question: IS THIS TYPICAL for Syncro?
>
>Exterior very good w/only minor scratches and minor ding in bumper &
>small repair in roof. The interior and camping pieces look excellent aside
>from wear on drivers seat and bubbling on the face of the refer. The only rust
>is a tiny area about 1/4 in x 1/2 inch in the body seam near the driver's
>door. Question: IS THIS RUST in the seam generally surface only? Or could it
>indicate a larger problem?? How can I tell?
>
>thanks, christine in Seattle