This is my second Westy ('81).  My first ('83) had a tree fall on it (flat
as a pancake).

[Is it pronounced "van-ah-gen" or "van-ah-gon"?]

I inherited a basket case engine with the thing when purchased.
Subsequently I've installed a 2.0L Porsche 914 engine with Weber.
If anyone wants to know about the hurdles cleared and obstacles encountered,
I'd be glad to share.
Just ask.

The top was rough; mildewed and cracking.
My restoration was in three steps (already done so there's no crying over
doing it wrong.)
Scrub down with a mixture of detergent and household bleach.
Light sanding to flatten nap and get at really deep spots.
Two coats of water based, exterior grade, mildew resistant primer (allowing
a full day in the sun for each coat).  Two coats of white enamel (same dry
cycle).
[I'm now after the interior mildew on the top section and will use the
"Bioshield" stuff I read about here today. Thanx.]
Seal on the way from Mr. Mcculloch.

I'm already impressed with the information exchanged here; it's like I've
uncovered a jewel hidden in the morass of Internet quagmire!  Thanks for
having such a fine group.
Hopefully my future contributions will be as worthwhile.