In a message dated 98-08-10 18:28:03 EDT, you write:

<< Next time you poke around in the engine, check to see if the A/C hose(s)
 have enough clearance and aren't rubbing and wearing out  against the engine
 compartment before they angle up into the interior.

 BTW VWoA want $346.50 for this hose and my local A/C shop says he can make
 it for about $50 - which should I choose? >>

Joel,

This chafing of the A/C hose is a common problem on Vanagons.
I found out the hard way several years ago when mine let go in an impressive
fashion spraying oil all over the left side of the engine just as I was
starting to get cool.
From my experience, go for the $50.00 hose from your A/C shop - it's probably
better material than the VW part.
But (this is important) take a piece of coolant hose whose I.D. is about the
same as the new A/C hose's O.D. and make a chafing 'collar' around the new
hose at the rub point.
Secure it in place with a couple of tie-wraps and don't forget to check it's
condition from time-to-time.
When the collar starts to wear severely just cut a new one and reinstall.
This is cheap insurance against the PITA of replacing that hose!

Sam Bateman
Fork Union, VA
'87 Vanagon GL