Date:         Wed, 27 Jun 2001 08:34:18 -0700
Reply-To:     Sean Garrett <seangar@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Sean Garrett <seangar@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject:      Re: Monster TO-DO List
Content-Type: text/plain; format=flowed

>From: Todd Greenwood <toddg@MICROSOFT.COM>
>I'm in the middle of remodeling an 80 westy, and I have a ton of
>questions:


>Van TO-DO List:
>1. Add Temp Gauge (I'd like to get sensors on each cylinder...overkill?

YES that would be overkill, just put one on. VDO make a "head temp gauge
that plugs into existing wiring. I have one on my 80.

>2. Add Tach Gauge (I notice there's been some discussion on this
>lately...I'll

Same as above

>3. Clean mildew off inside pop-top...cleaner recommendations?
>4. Clean outside mildew off outside of pop-top...The question is how to
>finish
>  it so it looks like new? I just cleaned w/ tsp and Clorox. 100%
>  better...but not 'new' looking yet...should I use rubbing compound
>  and then wax?

Search the archives, various articles on this.

>5. Replace Headlights (brand recommendations?)
>6. Extend gearshift lever higher...it's so low I have to bend down to
>reach it. I used to
>  ride an old 77 Westy, and the PO had installed an anchor bolt to the
>stick arm.
>  Does anyone make an extension?
>7. Replace sink pump (any brand recommendations?)
>9. Add an oil level and pressure meter...I'd like always know about this
>  precious fluid...

Yes, pressure is important but not needed, if your pump and engine have been
rebuilt well recently. I would opt for oil temp gauge.

>10. Spare tire (---found this in Bentley---cool, need to see if I have
>one :o))
>11. Paint job (where can I get something cheap in the Seattle metro
>area? Any
>  places to avoid?)
>12. Replace missing sliding door window (glass is gone...is this a
>junkyard
>  item...or something that can be fixed?)
>13. External oil cooler?...should I get one?

Not needed but could prolong engine life. I would not get one till I had a
freshly rebuilt engine. Do you know the engines previous history? Base this
decision on that.

>14. Gas grade?...my mechanic recommends premium for an air cooled. Is
>this
>  necessary?
>15. Recommended oil, after rebuild, then later...what grade should I run
>for
>  how long after a rebuild? My mechanic recommends either sae30 or 20-50.

Straight 40 weight is what has been recomended to me.

>-Todd
>'80 Westy


SeanG
80 Westy (my project)
95 EV Camper (wifes daily, current family camper)
88 F-150 (old reliable)
90 Sentra (current daily)
seangar@hotmail.com

_________________________________________________________________
Get your FREE download of MSN Explorer at http://explorer.msn.com