Date: Sat, 26 Nov 2011 10:14:28 -0500
Reply-To: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Dennis Haynes <d23haynes57@HOTMAIL.COM>
Subject: Re: Advice request; 1986 Vanagon automatic
In-Reply-To: <C14AC218F89D4FADABEE4F68837C02C5@Artwin>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="utf-8"
If you're planning to just buy this van and then go on a long journey be prepared. While a 25 year old vehicle with only 108,000 miles seems like a great deal you need to keep in mind that it is in fact a 25 year old vehicle. If you think this is a bargain it may not be for long. If in in fact it is low mileage and is great shape why hasn't it been used? When you put it to use and make it work many parts that appear good now will begin to fail. Cooling hoses and plastic parts will turn into engine damage. Those 25 year old engine gaskets will seek attention. Tires, brake hoses, suspension parts, heater cores, blower fans, air conditioning. All these systems will reach into your wallet at some point.
As far as wheel/tire replacement yes there are a lot of reasons to upgrade. But these vans can run fine on the original as designed set and if money is an issue just work on proper tires. The AC being disconnected is a sign that a previous owner sought to save money and this may have transferred to other maintenance issues.
Some points:
It is for sale for a reason. Why does the current owner no longer want it?
Whatever you pay for it that is just the down payment. If you pay little you know it needs attention. If you pay a lot you have high expectations and you will want to get it there.
No matter how much you inspect it you need to use as desired to find out what it really needs.
If you are not a mechanic you need to plan to become one. Supporting any 25 year old vehicle that you plan to actually use becomes expensive real fast.
As you travel far from home be sure to have funds available for many things. You won't be the frost or last that needs an engine or transmission 1,000 miles from home. AAA! Rent a U-haul and trailer to get it home. $$$
I know I sound a bit harsh here but I have folks come to me all the time with recently purchase Vanagons that develop all sorts of issues. There are also a lot of issues due to poor workmanship and unknowledgeable shops.
Dennis
-----Original Message-----
From: Vanagon Mailing List [mailto:vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com] On Behalf Of Art
Sent: Friday, November 25, 2011 7:12 PM
To: vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM
Subject: Advice request; 1986 Vanagon automatic
Hi all,
I’m not an experienced Vanagon owner...yet. I’m investigating a 1986 Vanagon with 108,000 miles on it. If I buy it, I’ll probably replace the fridge with an electric model from GoWesty. This unit has the built in stove and fridge. My plan is to take a couple of months and simply travel around. I have 3 questions that I’d love some help with;
It’s an automatic. should I run like hell? I haven’t found any serious warning signs on bogs or in research so far.
Many recommend upgrading from 14” wheels & tires to larger. It’s a heck of an expense. Any thoughts?
AC has been disconnected because it is barely adequate anyhow. I seem to see that this is a condition of these units. any solutions other than simply dealing with the lack of AC that makes sense?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Art.