Terry Buchanan,

I purchase my first Vanagon new in 1991.  After several years of driving
it, I wanted another one.  So I started my search.  I got the Sunday
newspapers, trading times and surfed the net.  I kept a log book of the
vans I did look into.  It became quite comprehensive.

One day last June, I called a van modification store seeking some
anti-slip tape and the owner asked me, "Are you still looking for
another Vanagon?"  I said, "Yes!"  He told me that one was coming in on
Monday from a estate sale with 22,250 miles on it.  He is working
through a lawyer.  I looked at it that Monday, off from work.  I could
not believe it!  It looked like it just rolled off the assembly line!
Brand new!  The dealership told me to put a bid on it and he'll asked
the lawyer in charge.  I offered him $8000.  They took it!!!!  It was
one of those events where I was at the right place at the right time.
It is a white 1991 Vanagon Carat, loaded, air, cruise, power windows,
brakes, locks, mirrors, am/fm/cass radio, velour interior, automatic,
theater seats, rear bench bed, pop-up table, ...

Ok, your probably asking, "What's wrong with it?"  Well, there were some
things that were wrong with it.  There is a small dent by the rear wheel
well that needs body filler.  The cruise control didn't work.  The cargo
carpet was very soiled and the thermostat housing needed replacing.  Ok,
$500 for additional repairs on this van.  I paid $8500 for a almost new
Vanagon Carat.  Not Bad.

What I am saying is keep looking and keep a log of the vans you do look
at.  Estate sales and divorce sales are sometimes better deals to aquire
because they are trying to get ride of them.   I am sure somewhere,
someone has one sitting in their garage with low mileage on it, thinking
of gettting rid of it.

I remember in 1995, I saw a add for a 1991 Vanagon Carat with 4900 miles
on for $12500.  It was in
North Carolina.  At that point in time I was unable to travel out there
and look/purchase it.

Keep looking,
Floyd Truskot