Hi Melissa,
    National (non California) 80 - 83.5 vans use L-Jetronic ecu without
oxygen sensor and tend to run a bit rich.  If all else is proper with the
engine you may get better mileage by readjusting the afm (air flow meter)
main spring tension.  There are many posts in the archives about this
procedure. The California 80-83.5 have  L-Jetronic with O2 sensor that keeps
the mixture near perfect. They also got electronic ignition.  You should get
around 20 mpg cruising at 60 mph.
Darrell

----- Original Message -----
From: Melissa E. Mourkas <legacy@JAVANET.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Thursday, July 15, 1999 9:08 PM
Subject: Re: Gas Mileage

> >I've had my 81' westy for a few months now, and through the help of the
> >members have fixed a few problems. (thanks to all).
> >My next question is about miles per gallon. I have been reading the list
> >daily and alot of members are averaging 20+ miles per gallon, while my
> >81' air cooled, fuel injected 2.0L is averaging around town only 15 to
> >16 MPG.
> Mark,
>
> I have an 81 Air-Cooled Westy and suffer the same dismal gas mileage
> results. My previous 85 wasserboxer had minimally better performance at
> 16-19mpg on the highway.  Sit back and enjoy the ride!  I think 15-16/
> gal is in the ball park.
>
>
> Melissa Mourkas
> Haydenville, MA
> 81 Westy 'Hildie'
>