Hi

I am new to this list as of today and will also be picking up my 29th VW (since 1970), an '82 diesel Vanagon. I currently own 2 other VW diesels, an '81 Rabbit (daily driver) and '81 Pickup (waiting for a rebuild).

The Vanagon is all original at 110,000 miles and perfect except for a small dent over the rear wheel well on the passenger side. I paid $1500 for it which I think was a pretty good deal. It has no rust and looks very new undernealth. The paint will need some rubbing out but is all original and in very good condition. It is 2 tone yellow.

My plans for the vehicle is to convert it to a camper/recreational vehicle to use for short trips to the beach and mountains. I live outside of Sacramento and within a couple hours of some great camping and fishing.

I have a few questions for you more experienced Vanagon folks:

The dashlights and fuel gauge do not work. Is there a common problem here?

Their is an oil leak around the oil filler when going over 60 mph (says the previous owner). Oil drips on the muffler. I think there is a crack around a filler extension. Is this an easy fix?

Is it possible to use some Westy parts inside to make this Vanagon better for camping? I would eventually like to have a sink, stove, and fridge and be able to sleep two.

Are there any good dealers on the web for purchasing camping articles for the Vanagon?

What are the best engine choices for this vehicle? Is a turbo-diesel from a Jetta or similar vehicle a drop in?

Many thanks in advance!

I'm sure I will have more questions in the future.

Jim Snyder