TheSamba.com :: View topic

Sun Jan 05, 2003 8:20 pm

i resently bought a vw bus and on some days it would run like my new toyota. it would start on the first try and would run for what would seem like (on that day) forever. on other days it won't start, and it will stall. Do you find this typical? Do you guys ever go more than 30 miles becaus I am.

Sun Jan 05, 2003 8:37 pm

OH, the vagaries of being a bus owner.
Yes, indeed, I often drive mine more than 30 miles. Anywhere from 150 miles round trip to a show to 1500 miles across much of the country.

Your problem sounds like you need to go through the standard John Muir idiot book sequence of diagnostics before venturing a guess.

Sun Jan 05, 2003 10:35 pm

Yeah I have had my Bus start on the first try for over 7 years. Sometimes it runs roughly until the engine warms but if I even hear a squeak that shouldn't be there I look into it or have someone look into it. My Bus has been as reliable as a Honda, but it takes time and money. What year is your Bus?

Mon Jan 06, 2003 5:21 pm

Actually it is a '62 single cab but i am so used to saying that it is a bus because if i told someone i had a vw truck then they will be comfused. By the way i think i'm just going to rebuild the engine and get that all over with. It may not need it right now but i just bought it so better safe then sorry.

Mon Jan 06, 2003 9:57 pm

Your problem doesn't sound like an engine replacement is called for. If you can rebuild an engine, you should easily be able to diagnose the problem. Intermittant problems can be a real bitch, though.

Also, as far as reliability goes, two recommendations:

1. Carry a fire extinguisher or two where you can get to them quickly. Any other mechanical problems pale in comparison to an engine fire for the damage it can do.

2. Join AAA and upgrade the membership to "deluxe" or "gold" or whatever they call it.
Basic membership means they will pay to tow your ride 15 miles for free. The deluxe version means 150 miles free! If you break down within 150 miles of home, you get to go home and work on your problem! The best deal going!

Tue Jan 07, 2003 1:20 am

AAA is a life saver!!

double check your ignition system. dtstributor, wires, plugs, timing. after that i would check out the carb.

Wed Jan 08, 2003 5:11 pm

ok now i feel like an idiot it was the stupid carborator. it just needed to be rebuilt. now it runs great. i'm still concered about driving it down to far. i dunno.

Wed Jan 08, 2003 7:34 pm

I say drive it.
But don't be dumb, check for safety items regularly (brake line leaks, brake fluid level, fuel line condition and leaks, wheel play, shift linkage)
Next check your oil and take the bus for a short warmup run the day before a big trip and listen to the bus, give it a karma check, and if you don't like a growl or noise or shimmy or shake, check it out before you commit to the long trip. And when you do go, bring the tools and parts you need for average repairs (plugs, points, rotor, cap, plugwires, fanbelt, motor oil, section of fuel line, hose clamps, bungee cords, duct tape, nuts and bolts, baling wire, condoms, etc.)

AND THEN DRIVE THAT SUCKER!