Date:         Sun, 25 May 2003 22:41:46 -0400
Reply-To:     jjvapi@ADELPHIA.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         John Vidovich <jjvapi@ADELPHIA.NET>
Subject:      Re: Organizing Vanagon Maintenance Information
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

The idea of an online database of repair procedures/experience is a really good one. As already mentioned, most of this information has been posted to the archives at one time or another – access to it is somewhat difficult because the thread names change over the course of the discussion. Much of the really useful information gets buried.
Not being a computer type, I can’t opine on the best method to handle the information, but it seems there are two types of data that is needed. The first being insights into the repair procedures covered (usually not very well) in the Bentley manual. Organizing this information using the same numbering headings as the Bentley would be the easiest way to reference it. For example if some one were looking for tips on how to loosen the rear axle nut, look up the section in Bentley, get the number and type that into the database index search thingy (or use a pull down to go to the pertinent chapter/section). All relevant posts would need to be logged using that section number for identification. For instance when posting, one would select the main chapter, then section where the advice would be most useful (e.g. chapter 40 section 11 deals with 2wd front wheel bearing adjustment). Links could also be added by someone who has done an archive search and come up with a particularly useful idea. I assume that would help any database maintenance person from having to decide where to place a certain bit of information. Periodic culling of less than helpful comments or misplaced information could be addressed by notifying the moderator of its location. This arrangement would cover 85% of what most people are looking for.
the second type of infromation deals with improvements or retrofits to an older van. An addendum section could be added to each chapter on unusual fixes or improvements with topics such as Dual A/C, Adding Power Windows or Adding Flotation Devices for Deep Water Crossings etc..
I have been collecting posts for the last few years and saving them under the various topic headings from “A/C Retrofit”, “Seat Modifications”, etc. as well as maintenance issues.  Most of the posts have the originators name attached for possible future reference. I would be happy to organize these further and submit them as an addition to the database. A good example is the Jag-lovers.org site. Same sickeness just different manifestation. They have done a good job of compiling years of experience in a fairly user friendly format.
Sorry for the long post, but this idea has a good deal of merit. As the vans age (along with their owners), any way to keep all of the experience gained in one place would be of benefit to anyone new to the vans, and some veterans too.


John
84 Westy SP