I'm about to go look at an 87 Syncro Westfalia, w/ a/c, pw, pdl, foglights
and 6-disc CD.   It also comes with 4 extra snow tires (I'm assuming on
rims), a Yakima roof rack that attaches to the gutters and a "space case"
(which the current owner claims are about a $2000 addition ... but since
I'm not bent on having the racks & case, he is willing to keep them and
knock down the price).

The ad says that the van now has 115,000 km on it, and he tells me that the
original engine had about 112,000 km on it (67,100 mi approx.) before it
was replaced 2 weeks ago with a brand new engine, at a cost of $5000 (CDN).

Other "new" stuff:
Rebuilt locking differential
Rebuilt Syncro vacuum valve
New clutch (was put in with the new engine)
New propane tank

The previous engine had an oil pressure problem, and eventually developed a
cracked block, which is why he says he had to spring for a new engine.

Also, and this is a BIG also, IMO ... the van is not native to BC, but was
originally a Richmond, ON, vehicle.  I can't remember where Richmond is in
relation to Toronto, but I DO know that out east, vehicles tend to get
eaten through by salt on the roads.  That, combined with the Westafalia
fanaticism on the West Coast ;-) is why these vans seem to carry a much
higher price tag around here.

His asking price is $18,999 (CDN).

I'm definitely going to ask if I can see his receipts, and phone his
mechanic about all the work he's claiming to have had done.  Aside from
having this vehicle inspected by a qualified VW mechanic, what else should
I look for? I think that getting a van with a new engine would be keeno,
but in your opinion, might this be a lemon, since it's needed so much work
so soon?  And if this seems to be a solid van otherwise, how much do you
think I should pay for it?  Any and all advice appreciated!

Katherine Lee