Date:         Fri, 21 Apr 2000 14:22:50 +0200
Reply-To:     Per Lindgren <lindgre@ONLINE.NO>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Per Lindgren <lindgre@ONLINE.NO>
Subject:      Re: Vanagon Love
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

John Fried wrote:

> 1. I must be very naive. I used to think I could just USE our new '85
> Westy for fun and enjoyment -- now I almost fear I'll be spending more
> time repairing it than using it!

<snip>

>
> Seriously, are these busses really that unreliable or am I just hearing
> from the "vocal minority" who have had problems.

<snip again>

> Quick, somebody tell me I'm not getting
> paranoid!
>

I've had my present Syncro for 10 months, covered about 8000 km in it since.
I have hardly done anything to it, including checking the oil. And yes, it
is my daily driver.

The repairs I have done: a quick overhaul of the stuck front diff lock,
replaced a cracked crankcase vent hose.

Other things I have done, not strictly necessary: Installed stereo system,
installed aux. driving lights, tinted windows, 3rd brake light.

The repairs I should have done, or should do soon: Change oil and filter,
check plugs and air filter, change tranny oil to synthetic, lube cv joints,
inspect and adjust front and rear brakes (hand brake is sloppy), it has a
small crack in the expansion tank, replace front springs (have new Betts
springs in waiting)

But hey! The thing is working, and most of the work is maintenance, not
repairs. It starts every day, bring me to and from work, and is generally a
fun car.

PerL
87 Syncro 112i