Date:         Mon, 24 May 2010 15:11:22 -0700
Reply-To:     Stephen Grisanti <bike2vcu@YAHOO.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Stephen Grisanti <bike2vcu@YAHOO.COM>
Subject:      weekend chores
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I spent a little time this weekend knocking out a couple of Westy chores.  First was to install the driver’s side grab handle that has been in the basement for a year or so.  Very easy install, but the wiring bundle inside the A-pillar needs to be avoided.  I made a template for the holes by removing the passenger’s  side handle and marking a piece of paper with the hole locations and transferred to the left side, then drilled first 1/8”, then ¼” and then 7/16” holes, being very careful not to let the drill go too far into the pillar.  Once the second set (¼”) was drilled I could see the pinkie-sized wiring bundle and reach a stick in to move it aside for the rest of the drilling.  When done the handle is, as you'd expect, very handy.
Next up was a quick fix I’d heard about for the slipping rain shields (GoWesty/Weathertech) that fit the driver’s and passengers doors.  I read where someone (on this list, I believe) had tried a few dabs of plumber’s putty and gave that a shot.  Seems to be holding for now and if you use it sparingly, it won’t squeeze out and show embarrassing white globs of stuff.
Now, on to the next phase of the ever-challenging odometer fix.
Stephen