I'm going to have a look at a Bay Window Kombi this weekend. Any advice on what I should look out for in terms of expensive repairs and commonly overlooked areas? I really just want it for a run-a-round/fishing/mountain-biking/paddling/occasional getaway/practical baja-van with a bit of nostalgia.
I have a '59 Ghia that often isn't the most practical of vehicles despite its never-ending head-turning charm!
Much appreciated!
Andy
What to look for - Bay window
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andyrtmorgan
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calooker
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Mechanical condition is very important and where the hidden costs may be. Take it for a spin, listen out for any strange noises from tranny and or motor, is it smoking, running smooth etc. If it has a Type 1 motor you can do a quick check, push pull on the crank pulley, if it has noticeable play it is likely the motor is worn out or built badly, that area is not cheap
to repair. Conditions of the rims will also tell you what could be costly suspension damage or a careless owner. Check the paperwork make sure
licenses are up to date and numbers correspond. Price can be negotiated around any faults, for a run-about body condition is not all that important
but it mustn't be a rust bucket, as it will not get a RWC.
to repair. Conditions of the rims will also tell you what could be costly suspension damage or a careless owner. Check the paperwork make sure
licenses are up to date and numbers correspond. Price can be negotiated around any faults, for a run-about body condition is not all that important
but it mustn't be a rust bucket, as it will not get a RWC.
For what it's worth, ignorance has no limits ......
Look at:
Suspension ball joints (big ones!)- difficult and expensive to replace...but does seem to last a long time.
Gearshift linkage - looseness here can be fixed cheaply but you might think the gearbox is kaput!
CV Joint noises when cornering - cheap but messy to fix yourself.
If 2x carbs - condition of linkages between them.
Excessive tappet noises.
Steering arm looseness - bushings.
This is a great vehicle to use for this purpose. you will be surprised where it can go! Just dont be too haastag!
Suspension ball joints (big ones!)- difficult and expensive to replace...but does seem to last a long time.
Gearshift linkage - looseness here can be fixed cheaply but you might think the gearbox is kaput!
CV Joint noises when cornering - cheap but messy to fix yourself.
If 2x carbs - condition of linkages between them.
Excessive tappet noises.
Steering arm looseness - bushings.
This is a great vehicle to use for this purpose. you will be surprised where it can go! Just dont be too haastag!