Date:         Wed, 10 Apr 2002 17:32:52 -0400
Reply-To:     Ben huot <huotx@VIDEOTRON.CA>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Ben huot <huotx@VIDEOTRON.CA>
Subject:      Getting a Westfalia (need other suggestion for my site)
Content-Type: text/plain; charset=ISO-8859-1

Sorry, posted without a subject

Hi gang,
I have many, many e-mail about newcomer that are thinking of buying a
Westy.
They are asking me what to check & verify.
Here is what I got so far (for the WB engine).
Please feel free to add some comment on mine or some new one, or if you
want to re-edit my English (maybe I use some female or male name at the
wrong places!!!!!!!( he he he)

General:
-You will have more control of the (poor) power curve of the engine with a
standard (manual) transmission. Air-conditioning is subject to failure and
takes some juice on the engine. (+ It takes all the space of the storage
compartment over the lower bed) (My point of view guys)

-Try to buy from a "real" previous owner that had the van for a few years,
he will know better (especially if he is an amateur mechanic). Ask for
invoices and bills; try to see if he knows the van. If yes, there is good
chance that he took good care of her. (or him…)

- A clean van tell a lot, inside, outside & engine compartment (look for
rust on the exhaust pipe bolt (head side), it will tell you if the head
where rebuilt or the heads gasket change. Only an asshole(sorry) would keep
the old bolts.

Engine and mechanic:
-Check if expensive parts like the Air Flow Meter, Idle stabilization
valve, fuel pressure valve, Oxygen sensor and so on have been change or
inspected.

-Look for oil & coolant leaks under the 2 heads, mine is dry!!!!!! Check
for oil over the engine near the Distributor, O-ring failure is common.
(not dramatic at all but it tell a lot)
Have the 2-pushrod protector shield remove to see clearly.

-Ask about he cooling hoses and pump, pump don't look like they last very
long. Hoses are very expensive. Check hoses for crack and wear. Also check
all metal cooling tube for rust.

- Ask the history of the alternator and starter.

-Check the CV joint boot for crack.

-Check the front radiator and both heater core.  They are expensive.

-Ask if the owner could start the van cold, just to hear if the hydraulic
lifter are noisy (more than 1 or 2 minute is not normal)

- Ask about the 2-oil pressure sender, IT IS A MUST THAT THOSE 2 SHOULD BE
CHANGE, PERIOD (see my site)

- Check the condition of the exhaust system in general.

-Check the stiffness of the head gasket, if somewhat soft = good sign.

-Check the power steering rack for leak (expensive)

Camper:
-If full camper, double-check the fridge to see if it works on all 3 modes.

-Check the propane tank & stove condition (are they working) the propane
tank regulator is subject to failure.

-Open the pop-top and check the condition of the canvas & screen.
(Expensive)

That is all I have on mind for now, please feel free to re-edit my poor
English, I will add those suggestion to my site.

Best regards
Ben