Date:         Thu, 27 Feb 1997 18:20:35 -0500 (CDT)
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@vanagon.com>
From:         Chris Morris <morrisc@belmont.edu>
Subject:      86 Vanagon

Hi folks,
I'm a new VW owner and new to the list, although I'm not so new to working
on cars. I'm kind of an RX-7 fanatic. I have several questions about my new
Vanagon that I thought I'd throw out for anyone interested in responding.
Bear with me, I have a newfound curiousity of the realm of Vanagon...

I paid $1000 for this '86 GL with 98k miles. It's a 4 speed w/ great
interior. Exterior has a few dings but overall is in great shape. Paint is
nice, and its from CA so no rust whatsoever. Was this a good deal? (I have
a feeling it was.)

I need new tires. I usually like to go a couple sizes wider than specified.
Has anyone put 205s on the original 14" wheels? Is this advisable? I also
understand that the heavy-duty tires that were originally made by Michelin
and are no longer available. My tire guy suggested Toyo 800+ and suggested
that I rotate and align regularly. Has anyone had any good/bad experience
with these or other tires?

The engine seems to 'miss' quite a bit, and visibly shake when revved. Is
there anything other than the obvious (wires, plugs, rotor, cap) that I
should be aware of in solving this?

The A/C is not working. The compressor does not engage when unit is turned
on. Fuse is OK. Is there a pressure switch and the unit just needs to be
charged?

The shifter seems stiff, should the linkage be lubricated? With what? Where?

I was disappointed to find that my rear seat do not fold down to make a
bed. Which models included those seats, and the swivel drivers seats? Is it
hard to find these in good condition? How much could one expect to pay for
them? Are they a direct replacement?

How difficult would it be to add Westy options such as fridge or stove to
my Vanagon?

Well, thats quite enough for now. TIA to everyone.

Chris Morris
Nashville, TN