Date: Thu, 3 Mar 2005 10:25:55 -0800
Reply-To: Trina Lindal <digidoll@COMCAST.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Trina Lindal <digidoll@COMCAST.NET>
Subject: Re: Seattle secrets and an oil filler tube
In-Reply-To: <001d01c51f9a$c2a44fa0$7dc6f004@computer>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"
Thanks for all your messages and advice about the oil filler tube. I'll
address some comments here.
I wish I COULD make a used one work (especially my old one), but
unfortunately, after 15 years of heating/cooling, the plastic inner and
outer flanges just won't go back on properly around the metal portion of the
tube. That's why I'm trying to get a new one. I've tried hitting it with a
rubber mallet/block of wood (risking bending the metal part of the tube out
of wack), cutting away the inner flange of the plastic (making it leak when
filling), etc. Duct tape and tin foil got me home from Sacramento when it
happened... now I've got the original back on there, albeit a little
precariously. Good thing I don't need to add oil often, knock on wood!
The almost unanimous recommendation has been to check either Bus Depot or
Camelback VW. Thank you all for recommending them, I feel good about finding
what I need there. I may have to give up on the idea of just replacing the
plastic portion and go all the way back to the base where it joins the
engine proper (sorry... not all that technical - at least I didn't say
"thingy"). (Thanks Joel for that idea!)
As for Seattle spots: I've been to Absolut German in South Park (Seattle)...
got a bunch of little replacement things (e-brake cover, hatch liner, etc);
it's a favorite haunt of mine on my lunch hour.
I've also had some luck up north on 99 (unfortunately, I can't remember the
name, I just know where it is!); surprisingly good prices to replace my wing
mirror and seat belts (uh, yeah, I forgot to mention that "other"
unfortunate incident with my dog!). Although they are a dealer, they have a
huge used parts yard as well.
You are all very helpful. Thank you again,
/Trina
-----Original Message-----
From: Gerald Masar [mailto:azsun99@earthlink.net]
Sent: Wednesday, March 02, 2005 6:43 PM
To: Trina Lindal; vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Re: Seattle secrets and an oil filler tube
Welcome to the list and sorry to hear about the broken vent window.
Not sure what broke on the filler tube, but it is possible to pull the
plastic
extension out all the way. Put it back by hitting the end with a block of
wood over it
to force it past the stops.
You can get good prices on dealer-only parts from Camelback VW in Phoenix,
at
1-800-876-5199. Mention the Internet to get the discount.
Jerry
----- Original Message -----
From: "Trina Lindal" <digidoll@COMCAST.NET>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Wednesday, March 02, 2005 5:35 PM
Subject: Seattle secrets and an oil filler tube
> Hello all,
>
> Short intro as a new member: I am an extremely pleased, proud owner of a
91
> Multivan, 140k/mi. I've done very few "modifications," although I've kept
it
> clean inside and out, except for an unfortunate incident with a thief and
> his screwdriver breaking into the triangle window!. I use my vanagon as a
> daily driver, and of course for road trips.
>
> I've done pretty well locating parts and a mechanic I trust locally, but
I'm
> hoping I can use this venue to learn more; especially if you are in the
area
> and can share some of your secrets.
>
> I'm having a hard time finding an oil-filling tube (telescoping plastic
with
> cap), as I needed to add oil on a trip last summer and could not get the
cap
> off, so had to pull the whole assembly off. Of course, it wouldn't go back
> on securely, so a new one is needed. Anyone know where I can get one? The
> dealer has it backordered... for 4 months now.
>
> There are a couple of other nice looking vanagons in my area (W. Sea): a
red
> Carat and another blue one almost identical to mine. Anyone here?
>
> Your archives are wonderful... it is nice to know I am not alone, whether
it
> be good or bad!
>
> /Trina
| 
