Hi there Volks, This is my first msg to the group, I have been lurking for
quite some time though.  My 1984 Westy has an auxiliary gas heater that I
was told worked when I purchased the van a year ago. My first vw, and I am
smitten. I would like to get the heater working again, though my mechanical
abilities are limited. I am in Western Canada, Williams Lake, B.C. to be
precise. Is there anybody within a days drive of here that is experienced
with these heaters. I would rather not blow my self up. Also, my wimpy 1.9l
engine ( 106000 miles) is leaking coolant from the headgasket. Im starting
to look/price out engine swaps, but 5G's for an inline 4/5 cylinder, once
converted to Canadian  money will probably  be 6-7 thousand. Ouch.  Is this
roughly what a person is looking at for an engine conversion or am I not
looking in the right spots. Also how long can a person expect to limp a
motor like this. I have already put 30 thousand km on it with the leak. Am I
ridding in a time bomb, I really don't want to be left stranded on vacation.
:{ Sorry for the longish post. Thanks in advance for any adivise.

David Johnson
1984 Westy
David Johnson
Phone: 620-3251 Fax: 620-3540
Compliance and Enforcement Technician
Timber, Horsefly B.C.

David.Johnson@gems6.gov.bc.ca