Considering a 1982 Rabbit diesel

[rinacabj]

I sadly had to give up my modern Golf (2004) when moving across the country but I had such a good time with that car that I'm thinking about going back in time (and cost) with a slightly older model.

I'm considering buying a local 1982 Rabbit and I've got a few questions for those of you who are far more familiar with these cars than I am.

First of all, are there any known issues (such as deteriorating engine blocks, uncommon/irreplaceable parts) that I should be aware of with this model? Or, even better, is anyone familiar with a shop local to the Seattle area that specializes in older VWs parts and/or maintenance? The one I'm looking at could surely use some interior help. I can reupholster the seats anywhere, but what about dash/door components? Any good OEM shops to buy new replacements?

Given the amount of biodiesel stations in the Seattle area, I'd most likely choose this fuel source. I understand that an engine conversion isn't necessary to run biodiesel, but it is recommended that the fuel pump is changed after the first few months of use, and that any natural rubber fuel-engine components are replaced with synthetic rubber parts. My question is this - when were synthetic rubber parts introduced in to production and/or what natural rubber parts would need to be inspected/replaced in a 1982 VW in order to safely run on biodiesel?

Lastly, there is a chance that I might be interested in a waste/straight vegetable oil conversion in the future. Anyone have any experience with this on this model? Is it recommended to avoid this? If so, for what reasons?

Thanks a lot! I'm excited to become a VW owner and lover once again.

[audifans]

diesels will serve you well, but you have to be ready for things like glow plug relays, glow plugs, coked up rings (if not well maintained) and of course, the issue of rust on all these cars.
Seattle is a good place to look for cars (as is the PNW).
City Motors on Aurora and 83rd is a reliable place.
Remember these are 30 year old cars and will need help. So have some cash reserves for problems.
Craigslist is a start. I'll include what I found last summer to get you started.
VWvortex Forums: yellow 79 wabbit
Look at a lot, a lot of cars to know what is worthwhile.
Good luck