Mark, it could be a wheel bearing or tire noise.  I would say tire.
Examine the tire tread for uneven wear or high spots.  Tires that have
sat for a long time can develop flat spots that will make a bunch of
noise on the road.

Hope this helps,
Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com

On 12/14/2010 5:40 AM, Mark L. Hineline wrote:
> It has been almost ten years since I've driven a transporter
> regularly. I'm not sure I remember what the front end should sound
> like when driving. Right now I don't have a stereo installed to mask
> sound. I replaced some wheel bearing that seemed to be grinding a
> little.
>
> What I'm left with is a noticeable sound of rotation, a sort of thrum
> thrum thrum that matches speed. I do know that it's in front. There
> are also some squeaks from the bushings, but I expect that.
>
> Does that sound normal? Am I likely to have a full suite of worn
> bushings that, once replaced, will quiet things down? Or maybe
> Vanagons are just loud in front and require tunes to mask the sound?
>
> Mark
> '82 Westy
>