Date:         Fri, 17 Oct 1997 12:53:59 PDT
Reply-To:     Steve Nizyborski <snizybor@HPCNQ30.CUP.HP.COM>
Sender:       Vanagon mailing list <Vanagon@Gerry.SDSC.EDU>
From:         Steve Nizyborski <snizybor@HPCNQ30.CUP.HP.COM>
Subject:      Buy this = buying trouble?

I'm in search of collective net wisdom here...

I've found a syncro adventurewagen a couple states over that i'm considering
buying, here's what the mechanic (i'm trusting he's impartial) said about it:

- Has been kept in very good condition
- Compression: 120/125/95/125
- 4 shocks leaking slightly
- some play in rear wheel bearings
- tires not reinforced
- rear brakes getting low
- slight leakage in rear c/v boots (replaced a couple yrs ago)
- should replace both belts
- oil deposits on both left side plugs (3 & 4), but not fouled
- body damage on sliding door & "B" pillar
- cooling system pressure OK
- no A/C
- no rust
- 110 K miles

Q: Given #3 cylinder & plugs, how much life do you think this engine has?
I know the bodywork is ~2K USD...i've heard Syncros are expensive to
maintain; any rough figures on some of the above?  (I've done tuneups
on my now-gone '68 bus, but will probably farm out _most_ of the above.
General comments are welcome too...

thanks

Stephen
87 Syncro AW ????