In a message dated 97-07-04 01:01:25 EDT, jadams@skimmer.fsl.noaa.gov (James Adams) writes: << Are there certain years/models to look out for/be wary of (I've heard that 87 was a good year for Vanagons) ? What should I have checked out when I am taking a propective purchase to >> IMO there's no "bad year" for Vanagons. They ALL have the head gasket problem (which, I'm sure you have been advised on by now). I'm assuming by you mentioning "later model" you are referring to the '86 up Vans with the 2.1liter waterboxer engine. The '83.5-'85 had the 1.9 waterboxer. Also with the '86 up vans you get power steering (introduced in '85). When looking at a van, it is most inportant to check the head gasket and see if you see any visible signs of coolant leaks. Look at the mileage and ask the seller if he has ever had the head gaskets done. A recent head gasket job is a good thing. (save you big bucks) Drive the van and let idle awhile in park or neut. and see where the needle stays (or goes!) and hopefully that little red blinking light won't come on.... it is a good time to check head gaskets when warm. Look for coolant puddles. Both overflow and reserve coolant tanks should have coolant in them and be at their proper levels. Check the powwer steering rack for leaks, and fluid level in cannister in engine compartment check a/c operation and compressor bearing noise. there are probably other things to check that I left out, but those were the basics. good luck, chris
|
Please note - During the past 17 years of operation, several gigabytes of
Vanagon mail messages have been archived. Searching the entire collection
will take up to five minutes to complete. Please be patient!
Return to the archives @ gerry.vanagon.com
The vanagon mailing list archives are copyright (c) 1994-2011, and may not be reproduced without the express written permission of the list administrators. Posting messages to this mailing list grants a license to the mailing list administrators to reproduce the message in a compilation, either printed or electronic. All compilations will be not-for-profit, with any excess proceeds going to the Vanagon mailing list.
Any profits from list compilations go exclusively towards the management and operation of the Vanagon mailing list and vanagon mailing list web site.