Date:         Tue, 14 Mar 2000 12:28:00 -0800
Reply-To:     Stuart MacMillan <stuart@COBALTGROUP.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Stuart MacMillan <stuart@COBALTGROUP.COM>
Organization: The Cobalt Group
Subject:      Re: Wasserboxer reliability
Comments: To: Brandt Milczewski <brandtam@EARTHLINK.NET>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Brandt Milczewski wrote:
>
> OK...
>
> I've had my '85 Westy for 3 weeks. Had one head replaced right before I
> bought it (burned valve). Then I replaced the CV joint on the right
> side. It runs great now. I've been on the list for 2 weeks and have a
> *serious* question.
>
> Can I take this thing across the country without worrying about breaking
> down or not? I love my van but I need to know will I always love it as a
> hobby or can it be a reliable traveler?

It can be a reliable traveler, and it can also break down without
warning.  Are you a risk taker?  All of us Vanagon owners are to some
extent, or we would buy a new car every couple of years and not worry
about breakdowns or repairs!

You have missed my earlier posts about what I call CAR-MA, the
relationship that seems to form between you and a vehicle you really
appreciate and take care of.  I have never been stranded by any of my
old vehicles or put into a dangerous position by a failure.  I have had
several breakdowns and failures over the years, but all have happened
after getting off the freeway, or close to home where they could be
dealt with safely and relatively conveniently.  And, none have been so
major I couldn't continue on in a short time.  It is almost like the car
holds itself together just long enough to get out of harm's way before
giving in to some system failure.

Others have experienced this uncanny relationship which can be
summarized as follows: You take care of your car and it will take care
of you.

Enjoy your trip, pay attention to your van's needs and you will be fine.
>

--
Stuart MacMillan
Manager, Case Program
800-909-8244 ext. 8208

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