We live on a small but steep mountain.  Just purchased nice 91 Westy,
automatic.

Any improvements available in the braking department?  I've had good luck
with Performance Friction pads for my Dodge diesel, I wonder if there is a
set for the Vanagon, or some better alternatives.

Westy squeaked bad while backing down driveway (steep incline).  Could have
been some rust knocking off.  Not driven since several days.  And later I
noticed a some annoying faint squeaking while driving and not applying
brakes, too.  Brakes didn't squeak while applying during short ride, but I
feel the braking is the weakest part of the Vanagon.

HK