Date:         Sun, 30 Dec 2007 01:25:00 +0000
Reply-To:     annasan1@COMCAST.NET
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Anna Quinn-Smith <annasan1@COMCAST.NET>
Subject:      My '86 "Blue Mongrel" - R.I.P.??

Wow!
   I never thought I'd have to write the list re: my now-dead (so-far) van, but - here I am.  I really need help & advice.
So, of course it's Saturday, all my local trusted VW shops are closed for the weekend. The LONG weekend!  Which means Wed Jan 2nd before I get any clue.   The  problems started a few days ago when I heard a 'POP' from the rear, nothing fell off,tho; but after that, my '86 sounded like a putt-putt old VW. There was lotsa white smoke then,too.
Today I was headed to Vanc,WA from Portland - going 55-60 on the freeway.  Normal. At about 15miles from home, I just lost power - 55 . . .50 . . .45 . . 30 . . 20 >>  so I headed to emerg lane, shut off engine, put on hazards. Engine would not re-start.  Towed home & here I am stuck!  A friend who's "into" cars said might be something with compression?, head gasket? (arrgghhh ! those awful two words that strike fear into VW owners!)
    Now, those who know me know my beloved van is my only link with real freeedom & independence. I don't walk far on my canes, and now it's too wet for my mobility scooter - and I hate-hate-hate to be confined within my 1000 sq feet!!   Add to this fixed income on Soc Sec and, yikes!
Only thing keeping me from being really bummed is :  I found out Xmas Eve I'm gonna be a 1st time gramma! My only child is preggers!!!  YAY!!!  but how will I get to Tacoma for the delivery !?!?!  Another arrgghhhh . . . . say, anyone have any kind of vehicle for loan/rent?
That said, I will ponder each and every response/suggestion/miracle workers who write back . . . thanx & have a safe and happy New Year!  * * * ~ anna in PDX