'86 Vanagon GL on eBay, located in California, ending tonight

[Baz]

Located in El Cajon. Too far for me. I would be interested if it was in Florida somewhere.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/221687439252?forcerRptr=true&item=221687439252&viewitem=&sspagename=ADME:B:WNA:US:3160

I'm no Vanagon expert (experts (Thom) feel free to chime in) but this looks like it could be a great little driver. Only 112K miles and it's a 4 speed too.

Auction is currently at $2,247 with no reserve - and ends in about 7 hours.

Go for it - someone!

[Nostril Cheese]

A Wasserboxer with 122K. What could possibly go wrong?

[Baz]

Originally Posted by Nostril Cheese

A Wasserboxer with 122K. What could possibly go wrong?

I don't know much about these - would appreciate any background info on things to look out for when considering a purchase.

Specifically how about this one, from what you can glean from the eBay auction site:
Volkswagen Bus Vanagon GL | eBay

Thanks, NC!

[Nostril Cheese]

The Wasserboxer is basically a VW Type 1 converted to water cooling. Vanagons had them from 1983-on. I think they're junk.

Based on what I see in the link, water jacket seal is leaking (like EVERY one of them). The heads corrode around the sealing surface because nobody used the right coolant. Couple that with low oil pressure in a large vehicle.

Expect to replace the head gaskets, water pump, all the cooling system hoses, fuel injection and vacuum hoses. AC doesnt work for some reason (belt missing). Probably doesnt pass CA smog either.

I wouldnt even consider owning a Vanagon without converting to a Porsche 6, Ford Zetec or Subaru EJ22/EJ25. The original Type 4 engine was just barely adequate. The Wasserboxer is just a insult to VW owners.

[Baz]

OK - thanks - appreciate your input, NC!

It does seem a lot of them have a coolant leak!

If I bought one, it would be for local use only so maybe the original engine would be fine, given the coolant system is working properly.

Also the smog check thing wouldn't be an issue here in Florida - we're exempt.

There's something about these units that I like. I know I can't afford a Unimog - or a double/single cab - might as well get one of these!

[Nostril Cheese]

I dont think you understand. You arent going to find a nice cheap one. They are a car you spend money on cause you love it. Go look at what these things are selling for on Go Westy.

Even then, you'd be shelling out big bucks for a painfully underpowered 30 year old vehicle. These vans are prone to mystery electrical problems, rust and really ass-backwards engineering.

[Baz]

Well - for me - I don't mind spending some money to fix up an older car - even one 30 years old - if I like how they look.

There's not very many cars manufactured after the 80's that I find visually appealing.

I realize that everyone has their own viewpoints on what looks visually appealing. I'm a bit of a nerd that way, I guess.

Thanks again for your thoughts and info - I really do appreciate it, NC.

[Nostril Cheese]

In that case, you want one from here in the PNW. Lots of well maintained models to choose from. Expect the electrical system to have ground issues.

I think you have my number for specific questions. Feel free to call.

Bostig Inc. - the most trusted Vanagon Engine Conversion Your BEST option, really. Throw the stock engine away.

[GWN7]

I thought one of the hot swaps for these is a TDI from Canada?

[356racing]

He's in Florida, they don't even have hills there. The wasser will provide plenty of power for Florida. Just put a new set of heads on it, replace everything else made of rubber and it will provide years of trouble free fun.

[Baz]

Thanks guys.

FWIW - the guy who bought Tangerine, my Italian delivery '73 911T 2.4, drove a Vanagon back and forth to Brumos in Jacksonville every day. That's over 100 miles each way. Also the shop in Spruce Creek that serviced Tangerine had one they used to pick up and drop off customers while their cars were being worked on. The owner is a former service manager at a NJ Porsche dealership. Top notch Porsche wrench - he got my carbed 2.4 running better than ever.

The check came from Brumos, BTW. I should have never sold that car.

[VW_NUTT]

It looks to be in good shape for a Vanagon. Speaking from experience the Subaru
EJ22 is a great swap. they are very inexpensive and many in the scrap yards. Well here anyway. I think the early subys dissolved faster than the Vanagons do with the road salt. Parts are easier to get. VW is no help with the Wasserleaker. My conversion was about $2000 when I did it 12 years ago. Just know ahead to own these is much like a Porsche. You are either handy or have very deep pockets.

[sugarwood]

Where is the engine located?

[rusnak]

1986 Motronic interesting, but meh. No 6 cylinder, no care.

[Nostril Cheese]

They arent Motronic. Bosch L-Jetronic. VW calls it Digifant.

It can be a tricky system to work on. They don't like air leaks.

[rusnak]

That's like Mac saying that the "Delete" button is a "Backspace".

[Nostril Cheese]

You never did answer if you were Pasadena or Westlake.

[Baz]

SOLD for $3,100 !!!

Congrats to whoever won this baby!

[Brillo]

Originally Posted by Nostril Cheese

You never did answer if you were Pasadena or Westlake.

I've been wondering that too

[jyl]

Seems like a good price.

The wasserboxer is a weak motor but suffices. The Bostig conversion is great.

I love driving mine. '88 Westy with Zetec.