TheSamba.com :: View topic - rusted out axle beam: how hard is this to replace

Wed Sep 17, 2008 2:29 pm

I'm looking at a bus to buy, but its not in my hometown. The guy says that the front axle beam is rusted through....he has another one. I imagine this is a pretty hairy job.....has anyone done this?

here is the link....with pics of the rusted out beam and the replacement.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Volkswagen-Bus-Vana...enameZWDVW

Wed Sep 17, 2008 2:33 pm

its a weekend job if you got the right tools and a few cold ones, just remember a few days before you do a job like this to soak all the nuts and bolts you need to lossen/take off in PB Blaster or liquid wrench, it will make the job alot easier

Wed Sep 17, 2008 4:03 pm

For $1000? From the looks of the rust on the outside, if the front beam is rusted bad enough to replace there may be rust issues with the frame and rear torsion housing. Mine wasn't rusted nearly as bad and I paid $100 for it(not running). If I was you I'd consider looking for something without so much rust.

Wed Sep 17, 2008 4:08 pm

Seriously, that bus is not worth $1000 just based on the rust. Even in the rust belt here, that's a $500 at best Bus. I've seen Samba postings for Buses in the SLC area for a little more, but look much more solid.

Wed Sep 17, 2008 4:31 pm

like ones daughter, I always advise to RUN not walk away from a van (be it a bus) with a bed in it.. no don't be so scared of a westfalia..

but ones with actuall BEDS are bad news.. if that's as clever as the current/PO is for sleeping or what ever inside.. I don't want their problems.. nor their upholstery. spend a little bux, buy a camper bed if you want a camper.. (least it's not a hot pink shag rug L'uv machine).

/no offense to anyone here with a mattres in your bus.. it's kool ok. :roll:

Wed Sep 17, 2008 6:21 pm

That bus has been for sale for a while. I saw it on craigslist a few months ago. Probably good reason for it not selling at $1000. Are you going to have to ship the bus? That will almost double the price, depending on where you are.

Wed Sep 17, 2008 6:49 pm

That bus looks to have way more rust issues than just a beam, it looks like a $200-$300 donor to me that may hold together for some winter fun for a season or two. :?