I have found the least expensive source for the front blower to be the
junkyard.  The blower from a Rabbit is the same as the Vanagon.  I was told
that the Vanagon installation does not allow for proper ventilation of the
motor.  This causes early failure.  The Rabbit on the other hand has better
ventilation and the motor lasts longer.  I can't prove this.  However, the
rear blower seems to last longer than the front, yet it's basically the same,
so the ventilation explaination may be correct.

Replacing the blower is a pain.  Many people wouldn't risk having to do the
job again in order to save $100 or so.

Does anyone know what years of Rabbits do fit?  I assume they're all the same.

Paul Kirsch
90GL