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1987 Volkswagon Vanagon Westfalia Westy Camper Van - $20,000 (belmont)
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What is the best year Westfalia to buy?
Typically, it is wise to stick to the 1986-1991 models only. Every once in a great while you come across a 1983-1985 model that is worthy of upgrading to the newer 1986-1991 systems so it becomes, essentially, as good as the later models. The Vanagon was available in a full camper, and also a simpler "Weekender" model.
I bought the van with about 130k and the engine had been rebuilt with about 110k. Rear engine seal leak and later head gasket leak before the second rebuild at about 230k. I put two new heads on it but the rebuild did not solve the rear engine seal leak. Engine seems solid but new heads have a valve knock the old ones did not have . Transmission has the same problem it had when I first bought it. You have to put it in second sometimes to get it in first. It does throw some transmission oil out if you drive it over 65 mph but no major issues I am aware of. Spare tire is like the other tires but no milage on it. Solar panel has a controller which charges both the main battery and a small agm battery. Interior shows its age and the paint job is fading in spots. Canvas is original and has some places where the cat got it with its claws. Some issues of rust on back door. Sink, stove and fridge work but it can be tricky to get the fridge to work on propane but it works well on gas and electricity. Stove works but one of the burners does not work on high settings but works on the low settings. Yes I have the title. I am not in any hurry to sell and don't want to sell it to someone who will regret buying it but I am considering buying the EV VW bus for reasons of safety as I am 73 and need something with the same safety features as my Nissan Leaf. The AC unit has been upgraded but it was a waste of money. Van comes with a lot of spare parts and tools. Don't even bother to come and look at the van if you don't plan an working on the van yourself as this van is over 35 years old and even when it was new required more work than most but it is a special camping experience. These vans are rare but it is a project vehicle for the right person.