Date: Fri, 25 Nov 2011 20:15:00 -0600
Reply-To: John Rodgers <inua@CHARTER.NET>
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: John Rodgers <inua@CHARTER.NET>
Subject: Re: Advice request; 1986 Vanagon automatic
In-Reply-To: <C14AC218F89D4FADABEE4F68837C02C5@Artwin>
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=UTF-8; format=flowed
Art, I have three straight Vanagons. For my purposes, there is not
another vehicle on the market that serves as well. I have two 88GLs both
with stick shift, and one 91 Carat with auto tranny. My sticks serve me
well, but not so much the auto tranny - and that is simply because the
vehicle is a project vehicle and is parked while it is getting loved.
It is a solid vehicle that was neglected and simply needs some TLC. Yur
potential buy may be the same deal. If the vehicle is basically sound,
but the PO neglected it, it may be a good buy - but be prepared to spend
some money bringing it beck up. But from experience, I will tell you the
vans can be extremely dependable, but you simply must be aware of the
maintenance needs and take care of them. If you do that, it will serve
you well for a very long time without trouble.
AS for wheels larger than the 14" - don't be in to big of a rush. There
are other things more important. Besides - I have kept all 14 inches on
my three vans. They serve me well.
The AC on these regs is really simple. You just need to spend some time
reading the literature.
Good luck.
John
John Rodgers
Clayartist and Moldmaker
88'GL VW Bus Driver
Chelsea, AL
Http://www.moldhaus.com
On 11/25/2011 6:12 PM, Art wrote:
> 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.
>
>
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