Date: Wed, 17 Mar 1999 02:21:30 EST
Reply-To: Vantaztik@AOL.COM
Sender: Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From: Roger&Zoe Ann Banker <Vantaztik@AOL.COM>
Subject: Re: Vanagon models, power specifics
Content-type: text/plain; charset=US-ASCII
In a message dated 3/16/99 9:34:22 PM Pacific Standard Time,
jrdorn@bellsouth.net writes:
> Your questions cover an awful lot of ground. In what part of the country
> will the van be used?
> Mainly the midwest.
> > > What will you be using the van for?
> Daily driving, long trips, as well as hauling around the other members of
my
> brass quintet while we are on tour. Which is fairly often, about 25 to 30k
miles per
> year.
> > > Are you getting air or water cooled?
> Probably water, for heat and possibly air conditioning.
> Air conditioning works the same in air or water cooled, but the water
cooled engines do put out more heat. And given the high mileage and heavy
loads you will be hauling, I would look for a 1986 or newer, since that was
the last year to increase the engine size.
> > What is your budget?
> This is still under debate, but hopefully reasonable.
> > > Can you do some of your own repairs?
> Yes, I have done quite a bit of my own work.
> Part of the "charm" of these vehicles is that they seem to demand a close
relationship with many of its parts, especially the engine. Having some time
and aptitude definitely helps.
> > The basic body is the same for all years, but there are equipment
differences, and lots of camper options.
> I think I might be interested in a weekender so I can haul a bunch of
people, but then my wife and I can also get out for quick trips.
> The Synchros are nice, but they are rare and cost more. If you don't need
the 4-wheel drive, there are lots of nice camper options in 2-wheel drive
vans. I like the Wolfsburg camper edition for casual trips, but there are
lots of different camper conversions. If you camp in the cold, you may want
to consider a "bubble top" camper, with insulation and heat. Whatever you
get, try out the bed. Some of them are an aquired taste.
The stock engine will get you where you need to go, just change the fluids on
time, including the coolant, and never let it overheat. Check out the posts
on this list for different power options.
Have fun,
Roger & Zoe Ann
1987 Synchro Adventurewagen
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