> First off, my van is (according to the VIN) a 1985 sunroof vanagon, in
> "good" shape.
> This places my bluebook value at something like $1500 or $2000.
>
> Here's where the problem lies.....
> It's now a full westfalia with a $6000 zetec engine.
> By my estimates that puts the value that I could sell it at between $6000
> and $10,000. Any suggestions for how to convey this to the insurance? They
> will not do a state value on anything other than a collectors vehicle, and
> they didn't really like the thought of an appraisal.

Of course they didn't, but get one anyway.

> Should I just ask them
> to put a note in the file of the fact that it is now a westfalia and powered
> by BOSTIG?

Yep, and include a copy of that appraisal in your file.

Note: you may not be able to register as a collector's vehicle
depending on your state's laws. For instance, in WA state I could get
a collector's license for my van but then technically I can only drive
it to collector events.