In a message dated 98-07-14 17:57:32 EDT, dmc@CYBURBAN.COM writes:

<< I am a prospective purchaser of a Vanagon/Eurovan who has been
 monitoring this list for the past couple of weeks to get an idea of what
 these machines are about.
 Judging by the amount of problems I see being discussed here, I must
 admit I am getting the impression that owners of these vehicles are
 having to tinker with them on a daily or weekly basis to keep them
 running. >>

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