In a message dated 12/18/99 7:36:57 PM Eastern Standard Time, Zcoop1@AOL.COM
writes:

<< My 82 Westy has a round silver fitting on the dash.  It is located just
right
 of the steering column and below the clock.  What is it?  Or is this
 something the previous owner installed?
 david
  >>

go to Vanagon.com and look up FAQ for "mysterious dash silver socket"
fyi, it's an european spec outlet. all '74-'84 westys have them.
chris