Are A/T Type 2s worthwhile?  Heck yes !  So is a Ferrari F-40 as long as it "ain't broke", but you might need to get a federal grant to repair/replace the tranny. Convert to 4 speed? I wouldn't want the job. May cost more to repair/replace than the van is worth. If you find a A/T bus that seems to be OK, I would still get 2nd opinion from someone who really "knows" about automatics. Just because it has nice pink ATF fluid doesn't mean that all is well. Owner could have changed the ATF just to sell the van.
 Buyer Beware.
 A/T vans are really nice and can be dependable if all is well and taken care of. Good Luck !!

Yes, mine's been great. Even towed with it and no problems. Sure beats rowing a stick through town or twisty roads. They share many parts with VW autos right into the 90s, so they can be rebuilt, but it will cost an arm and leg, like any auto. I've known and talked to a few others who have had them and they have been dependable for them, as well.

That being said, I keep a spare in the garage, just in case.

The conversion job can be done, but its a long weekend's work, and mine was extra sloppy at best. I'm happier now.