I would really question an engine overhaul at less than 60,000 miles.
Either someone is lying or this vehicle has seen some abuse.  These engines
are not noted for their reliability.  I would definitely wait for a
Waterboxer.

Dennis

-----Original Message-----
From: M. Ryan Fryar <fryarm@EOU.EDU>
To: Vanagon@VANAGON.COM <Vanagon@VANAGON.COM>
Date: Monday, July 20, 1998 2:47 PM
Subject: begging expert advice

>Hi all,
>
>I'm new to the list, and a Wanabus to boot.  This is a request for advice
>from all you seasoned veterans to a novice on a bus I Wannabuy.  Thanks for
>your patience in advance.
>Yesterday I test drove an 81 Vanagon, no rust at all anywhere, and a good
>off-white paint job.  The odometer claims 57,000mi.  The engine was
>overhauled 500 miles ago and as far as I can tell, runs perfectly- to my
>untrained eye it looks perfect too.  Interior is spotless, ugly brown
>carpet yes but it is clean and relatively unworn.  When I started it up,
>according to seller it had not been started in over a year .  It sounded
>extra loud at first- then got better, due I have read on the vanagon page
>to leaking hydraulic lifters (the seller told me that as well).
>The seller is asking for $2,500 firm, and I am inclined to pay him.  If I
>may ask, is this a good deal, a medium one, or a sucker punch?  Assuming of
>course that a knowledgeable mechanic tells me "all is well" in advance.
>The model I really want is an 86 vanagon, not the westie with pop top, bed,
>and camper goodies, but a vanagon with weekender package so I can fold the
>back seat into a bed.  Can I get something like that in good condition for
>under $5000? I'm not in any rush, I can wait for the right van if this 81
>is not a great deal- the seller is not advertising either.  I could wait a
>month or two and probably get the same deal.
>What does everyone think?
>Thanks,
>
>Ryan Fryar
>fryarm@eou.edu