Date:         Wed, 3 Dec 2003 10:52:44 -0800
Reply-To:     Mark Tuovinen <mst@AK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Mark Tuovinen <mst@AK.NET>
Subject:      Re: Help Needed--87 Vanagon vs. SUV
Comments: To: "Stewart, Donna" <DStewart@REEDSMITH.COM>
Content-type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii

Donna,

Check ep.com and autotrader.com for similar vehicles to determine the value of yours. You do not have to give up the van if the insurance adjuster totals it, you can buy the salvage back and fix it yourself. If you do this you will probably end up with a title identifying the van as a salvaged or reconstruct vehicle. I can not speak for other states, but here in Ak as of a couple years ago you could contest the reconstruct/salvage title if you could prove to the DMV that the vehicle suffered no major structural damage, and that the only reason it was totaled was the cost to repair at retail price exceeded known value.

Mark in AK

----- Original Message -----
From: "Stewart, Donna" <DStewart@REEDSMITH.COM>
Date: Wednesday, December 3, 2003 7:58 am
Subject: Help Needed--87 Vanagon vs. SUV

> Front of my 87 Wolfsburg edition was hit on Sunday.
>
> I'll need a left headlight and possibly the high beam as well;
> Gowesty has headlights for $135.55.  If anyone knows of a better
> price for headlights, could you please email me?
>
> My bumper (the part that covers the ugly metal bumper) was
> completely ripped off.  If anyone knows where I can get another
> (junk yard recommendation is fine; it'll need to be painted
> anyway) please email me.
>
> (Oddly, my fog lights are unharmed - bumper went skidding down the
> street!)
> Lastly, if you see any ads, or have one for sale, I could use
> prices for 1987 Wolfsburg editions at around 150,000 miles.  The
> adjuster has already ominously warned me about how I'll have to
> give up the vehicle if the cost to fix it is too much.  I would
> really rather keep this one because my interior is immaculate, but
> we'll see.  This is a non-pop top, sort of light gray/almost
> bluish color, table, light, curtains, cupholders, etc.
>
> My grill is trashed and also need turn signal lamp.
>
> Thanks in advance for any leads on parts or help/advice re the
> insurance claim part of this.  I'm located in Northern California.
>
>
>
> Donna
>