I might be able to get a VW thing w/ a bad motor for about 2k, any input as to the possibilty of putting a sube motor into it, my concern was initially how to plumb it. I have seen Things on the 'net for up to almost 30 grand and was thinking it might be a good investment and a fun toy as well.

I would only consider restoring it to original. Their prices, as you said, are high,, &&& getting higher!

VW thing?

I think pommies call em "Trekkers" you can check out the samba dot com to see what I am talking about if you want. They have a whole section on em.