Stopped by a local "pick & pull" junk yard yesterday.  They had 4
Vanagons.  I looked them all over and thought that none of them should
have been there.  Damage seemed to be minimal - scrapes and fender
benders.  I guess that the repairs cost more than the value of the
Vanagon.

I also noticed the contents of the vans.  One was heavily loaded with
boxes and a mattress - they were moving.  One had a lot of child's toys
and I noticed a small pair of child's shoes in the front area.  I hope
they used a child's car seat.  Another one belonged to a medical student
- loaded with medical books and papers - and a 1/2 used first aid kit on
the front seat.   I did notice the tires.  None were the reinforced type
recommended for the Vanagon.  They were  passenger car tires and all
were very "bald" with heavy wear in inner and outer edges. Perhaps these
accidents could have been prevented by using the proper tire and legal
tread?   Check yours and be safe!

Gary
88GL