>David Cooper <Zcoop1@AOL.COM>

wrote:

>Ok so I am a rookie in the world of Vanagons.
>since I am a rookie any more tips on prolonging
>the life of my aircooled engine?( if you have particular products that seem
>best please let me know)  What is a good rapair manual to get?

David,  we were all rookies once.  I got my first air-cooled 2.5 years ago. A
1980 westy.  Been lovin'
ever since.  Planning a cross country trip this summer in it.  My suggestions
would be to add
an oil temp gauge (lets you know if your working the engine too hard), a
tachometer
(I always like to know how fast my engine is turning - try to keep mine between
2 and 4k rpm).
Keep your eye on ebay for a Bentley manual cheap.  you can also pick up a Haynes
 for around $12
new.  may have to order from a vendor.  change your oil every 3k miles.  I plan
on adding an oil
pressure gauge.  There is a secret group of us air-cooled vanagon list members,
but don't tell
anyone.  I will send you the secret info pack seperately.

welcome.

eric h.
80 westy