In a message dated 98-07-15 08:54:21 EDT, GMBulley@AOL.COM writes:

<< David--

 Yes, there ARE a lot of problems discussed here, as people typically join
this
 list (as you) to learn, and share knowledge from others who have more
 experience. Two things affect the content on the list. First, few people post
 or would spend lots of time reading:

 "Well, another uneventful day...I got in my Van today, and it started fine on
 the first try, as usual. Further, my trip was puncuated my efficient braking
 power, smooth acceleration, reliable A/C, and a comfortable ride. The radio
 sounded especially good this morning. More tomorrow. Any comments?"  We tend
 to get more excited about, and need more help with things like:

 "Well, the engine fire was put out in a matter of seconds by the automatic
 Halon fire supression system I designed and build last week from spare parts
I
 had around the house. At the last instant, we made it around the hairpin
turn,
 but one of the brake calipers exploded from the heat of slowing down our van,
 in which I was hauling 14 motors to sell at the Bug and Bus Blowout in Boise,
 any one going?... Surprisingly, only the Fritzmangler valve burned in the
 fire. Anyone know how much for a new one...should I use one from a junk
 yard??" So that's what we look for knowledge/share knowledge on.

 Second, (a broad, sweeping, and dangerous generality here), Vanagon owners,
 ESPECIALLY Westfalia owners, appear to be tinkerers by nature. Beyond the
 ability to Camp and travel in their vans, they are attracted to the myriad of
 mal-designed, meniacal mechanisms attached to the machine. There is far more
 room for tinkering on a Vanagon, than on a Camry.

 That isn't to say these vehicles aren't reliable, they *CAN BE*. My family
has
 owned VW Vans since 1962, with no real reliability problems to speak
 of...HOWEVER, These vehicle ARE an on-going maintenance concern. If you don't
 choose to tinker (I am a recovering do-it-yourselfer, and strongly encourage
 others to get on the wagon) you should find a good mechanic, and reward
 him/her profusely with letters of praise to the Better Business Bureau,
 generous tips, and expensive gifts at Christmas/Chanuka/Quansa etc. After all
 this person frees you up to may money in your field of expertice, no greasey
 fingers!

 Good luck, get a van,

 gmbulley
 cary, nc
  >>
I like your response Cary, good writing.    Michael Modl, 87 syncro.