Date:         Mon, 31 Mar 2003 16:00:15 -0500
Reply-To:     David Brodbeck <gull@GULL.US>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         David Brodbeck <gull@GULL.US>
Subject:      Re: ..gutless and unreliable....
Comments: To: Robert Keezer <warmerwagen@HOTMAIL.COM>
In-Reply-To:  <F128lpkFpeVeeui7af90001a075@hotmail.com>
Content-Type: TEXT/PLAIN; charset=US-ASCII

On Mon, 31 Mar 2003, Robert Keezer wrote:

> Make a restoration plan. Plan the work and work the plan and drive the van.
> OK, I know that sounds corny but then it is a square vehicle.

The "drive the van" part is important for morale, IMHO.  Do the mechanical
stuff first.  Drive it around, camp in it, have fun.  Then tackle the
bodywork and prettying stuff up, as you have time and money.

You gotta get it out and drive it, otherwise you risk getting down about
the whole thing and falling into "never-ending restoration syndrome".
I'm sure you all know people suffering from this...the guy who has the old
Charger or vintage Beetle or whatnot in his garage, or on blocks in his
yard...hasn't driven it in years, and just doesn't have the heart to work
on it anymore because driving it and having fun in it seems so far off.



David Brodbeck, N8SRE
'82 Diesel Westfalia
'94 Honda Civic Si