David, One of the best attributes of the '84 vintage is its simplicity and reliability. With no PS, AC, or power anything there is little to go wrong other than the engine and transmission. I love mine for exactly that reason. Without PS and AC the engine also doesn't work as hard, so it should last longer and get better mileage. You could retrofit PS, but you would need to find a junkyard specimen and pull all the parts yourself so you know where they go. Brackets, pump, long hoses, steering rack, etc. Plan on at least three weekends for the job. As far as the AC, there are aftermarket kits, but the Vanagon is a big box that is hard to cool, so would have to be careful to determine if the unit is up to the task. You don't have AC when you camp anyway! You will be best advised to find a van that has what you want/need on it than to attempt a retrofit, IMHO. As far as women and the steering go, neither my wife or daughter has any trouble with ours. In fact, my daughter took her driver's test in it when she was 16. They are light on the front end, and if you keep the vehicle moving a bit when steering while parking it is much easier to steer. This is a technique long forgotten since the advent of PS, most folks just spin the wheel back and forth because it is so easy, but this is also hard on the tires. You will find your parking options are more limited anyway, since you need a 7' clearance in parking garages. Most women can benefit from a little upper body strengthening anyway! Look at the '84 as an enforced workout program! Good luck with your purchase. -- Stuart MacMillan Manager, Case Program 800-909-8244 ext. 8208 Getting your share of the Net yet? http://cobaltgroup.com http://UsedEquipNet.com |
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