In a message dated 12/21/99 10:37:50 PM Eastern Standard Time,
jtdjtd@TIAC.NET writes:

<< but will my local
 mechanic be driving a Lexus on me ? >>

No, a toyota though maybe...:-)

There really is not a concrete way to answer this question.  If you get a van
that has been taken care of and you take care of it, you shouldn't be in for
many surprises other than would normally be found on a 10 or so year old
vehicle.  On the other hand, if you get a van that hasn't been taken care of
or you don't take care of it well....I pulled a van out of storage taht had
not been taken care of.  So far rebuit Diesel Engine + Install $1300, Rear
Brakes including new drums & lines $300, New shift base/grommets $50, and the
list goes on.  I have put 400 miles on it so far.  Well see what happens, but
if you check everything really good and plan for the worst, you'll definitely
be happy.

Stefan