TheSamba.com :: View topic

Mon Jan 20, 2003 9:05 pm

I am bran new to VW's. I just bought a 72 bus to cruise the country in this summer. How do I tell what it is. Ie, westfalia or what. It has a camper. Thats about all the info I know. Thanks for any help. Also, what are the first things to inspect to make sure it will be worthy of a long trip? Thanks
matt

Mon Jan 20, 2003 11:09 pm

check out www.wetwesties.org

they have a links site and there they have a buyer's guide checklist. I know you already have bought it but it is a really good place to start as far as what to look for regarding potential problems...good luck

joey

Tue Jan 21, 2003 2:07 am

Make sure the timing is right, the points are set, the valves are adjusted, CV joints, brakes, and carb are good. Maybe bring extra shift, brake, and gas cable, some tools, gas can, maybe install an oil sump. Take some 100 mile test drives before! Buy some books on it like Muir's Idiot's Guide and/or Bentley manual.

Tue Jan 21, 2003 5:59 am

Chabanais is right but he left out one thing. Compression. Check it. It's like the motors heart beat. If it's weak, your bus won't last much longer. And replacing an engine on the road isn't all that much fun.

Also, join a local club. Attend their meetings a make friends with folks. They will be able to help you out too.

Tue Jan 21, 2003 7:23 am

Engine compartment seals need to be in perfect condition,especially on a heavy camper.If you can see light between the engine compartment tin and the ground anywhere it needs to be plugged up somehow,and print out the A.I.R.S. list before you go on any long trips.Good luck

Fri Jan 24, 2003 6:22 am

To answer the type-of-camper question, your biggest clue for the '72 will be the type of top - is it a pop-top, high roof, of hardtop? What stuff does it have in the interior--especially in appliances. What is the interior upholstery like? You can find info on the Westfalias (most common conversion) at http://busdepot.com/campers.htm. Other conversions (ASI/Riviera, Sundial, Sprtsmobile, Dormobile, etc.) you'll have to look for. Check out the tech articles at type2.com. There's some good stuff there. And good luck!!

Fri Jan 24, 2003 1:41 pm

It does have a pop-top. THe interior is stripped but I do believe it had a sink, stove and fridge before the guy before me tore them out. Thanks for all your help samba.
matt