Thanks, Benny. Actually the Vanagon has an 87 Jetta engine in it, so it's from the water-cooled tribe. But I agree with you on maintenance costs. I've always assumed it would be like a boat (a hole in the water (or land) into which you throw money). I think to find this out after previously requesting a full inspection and to have it be scary things like leaking fuel lines contributed a lot to the intensity of my reaction. I really appreciate your (minimal but adequate) repair tips. They're golden. Will print and bring with me to whatever shop I end up at. Local guys are giving me tips. Cheers (sorta) Pat -----Original Message----- From: Benny boy [mailto:huotb@VIDEOTRON.CA] Sent: Wednesday, November 04, 2009 5:28 AM To: VANAGON@GERRY.VANAGON.COM; Pat Sloan Subject: Re: The Otter Has (CRASH) Landed! Hey, you won't like what I'll write so.. 82 Vanagon, first mistake. I can elaborate on that if you want. Air-cool I assume??? If your van would be in my shop: I would easily find another 3-4K$ to put on her, so 3k is not bad :-) Seriously, buying a Vanagon is worse than buying an old house, be ready to spend money, each week or month. I rent an old house, so far, after a year, the (VERY GOOD) owner as put more on the house that i gave him in rent. Like many have stated, start learning mechanic, i mean 2/3 of the stuff is no more harder than to fix little thing around the house. -A bumper cap, come on men! -Wheel bearing, no money! tight that nut harder, it will pass inspection. -Flasher to fast, tell them to go to hell, it's normal on Air-Cool. -""Fuel lines leaking fuel. Siliconed and held by electrical tape""", BS!!!, there is over 30PSI of pressure in there, tape won't old so much pressure. Show me a picture! Take a screw driver and tight that clamp. Air-Cool always have a nice non rusty engine/bay. -Fuel filter, tie-rap. Your only real Canadian inspection issue are the front end bushing/tie rod end/ball joint. This is a one day job at most. Cost is minimal as to part. So, you don't want to work on your van, ok. Here is the fact: -Labour: 1.5-2 days at 65$hr, 700$-1000$ -Parts: anything between 400-700. So worse case, 1700$ My neighbour (shop) would do all that for 800$-1000$ part included. Now, start reading and get dirty: http://www.benplace.com/vw2.htm Voila. Ben ps.: and welcome :-) http://www.benplace.com/ |
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