I had never given the tunes much analysis from this perspective. (As a drummer in my 'past life' I just didn't pay much attention to the non-percussion details. I am seeing all music from a completely different side these days.)
The inspirational sound for me is in Ain't Talkin Bout Love. I believe this must be the Shark if he played it on the first album. I started looking for info on it and found
http://www.celebrityrockstarguitars.com/rock/vanhalen.htm
... Maybe not the best source. But the first picture I have of The Shark is on any albums I think is is W & C F. Are you sure he played on the first?
It's been a while since I played these on my main stereo. Might be time for a recap. :)
...so ever since then, I always hang on to the buckle.