Howdy,

A year ago I bought my 84 Vanagon Westy named "Miles".  Over the past year
I've been outfitting him for a year long trip around the USA starting this
September.  I've fixed the A/C, installed a new radiator, and performed
routine preventative maintenence such as replacing the belts and changing
the oil.  So far he's driven like a champ.  

One problem that is driving me nuts, however, is a sound coming from the
engine compartment.  I think it's fuel line/pump related.  I've replaced
the fuel pump, fuel filter, had my gas tank steam cleaned and pressure
tested but the noise is still there.  It sounds like a hive of killer bees
is attacking under the rear seat.  I can climb under the van with the
engine running and hold (dampen) the fuel line leading from the pump to the
engine and drastically decrease the volume and pitch of the noise.  I
recently took the van into my VW dealer for a 120k checkup and they
couldn't determine the source of the noise.  They first thought it was a
belt and removed all of the belts but the noise didn't cease.  My weak
theory is that the fuel in the fuel line is vibrating and is making the
noise.  Any other theories?  

If anyone has any clue or suggestions to try I'm very motivated to
eliminate this noise as I don't want to drive around the USA with the
killer bee sound following me.

thanks

chad bearden
ebeard@compuserve.com