Vanagon Essentials ~ The FAQ Guide

[kamzcab86]

Vanagon FAQ Index

Clicking the links below in this index post will take you to the desired section, but will open in a new tab/window. You may also simply scroll down to the desired post/section. Pro tip: Use your browser's "find" command (ex. Ctrl + F) to do a keyword search for subjects you're looking for.

This FAQ Guide is sectioned and enumerated to match the Bentley Service Manual for Vanagons.

General Info

• Type/Model information
  
• Buyer's Guide
  
• Paint colors/codes
  
• VIN
  
• Engine code/number
  
• Transmission code/number
  
• Vehicle Care/Maintenance
  
• Terminology
  
• Lifting van with jack/hoist
  
• Towing: General towing info; hitches; trailers; roadside assistance
  
• Insurance
  
• Thefts & theft-proofing
  
• Repair shops, parts/product info, technical info & online manuals, tools, apps
  
• Van Fires: Why they start, how to prevent them, & how to put them out
  
• Name this part!
  
• Owners' realm

Engine, Cooling, Fuel, Exhaust, Ignition, Electrical

• General info
  
• Cylinder heads & valve drive
  
• Lubrication system
  
• Cooling system
  
• Fuel system
  
• Exhaust/emissions system
  
• Electrical: battery, starter, alternator/charging, ground locations, solar set-ups
  
• Ignition system

Engine Conversions/Swaps/Rebuilds

• Who does conversions & rebuilds?
  
• General info
  
• Upgraded WBX
  
• Subaru
  
• Volkswagen I-4, 1.8T, VR6
  
• Zetec/Bostig
  
• Tiico
  
• Audi
  
• Porsche
  
• Diesel
  
• Air-cooled to water-cooled

Clutch & Transmission

• Clutch, controls
  
• Torque converter
  
• Manual transmission
  
• Automatic transmission
  
• Differential
  
• Transmission swaps/alternatives

Suspension, Steering, Brakes, & Tires

• Front wheel suspension
  
• Rear wheel suspension
  
• Wheels, tires, alignment
  
• Brakes
  
• Steering

Body (Interior, Exterior) & HVAC

• General body information: dimensions, paint, modifications, etc.
  
• Hoods/lids (aka rear hatch)
  
• Doors
  
• Sunroof
  
• Tarpaulin
  
• Bumpers
  
• Glass, window regulators
  
• Body accessories (side moldings, mirrors, etc.)
  
• Seat belts
  
• Interior trim
  
• Seats
  
• Seat upholstery, heating element
  
• Heater/ventilation
  
• Air conditioner
  
• Insulation, sound-deadening, odors, & rodent problems

Camper

• Roof: pop-top/high-top
  
• Interior panels
  
• Storage & cabinets
  
• Tables
  
• Water tank(s)
  
• Plumbing
  
• Sink
  
• Fridge
  
• Stove
  
• Propane tank
  
• Seats & beds

Electrical System
For ignition, charging and related electrical, please refer to the Engine section above.

• Instruments, radio
  
• Windshield wiper & washer
  
• Lights
  
• Accessories (inverters and such)
  
• Wiring, connections, and ground locations

Modified, Restored, Rebuilt Vans

• Various modified vans
  
• Various builds
  
• Various restorations
  
• Various rustorations

Camping & Traveling With Your Van

• Packing & Organization
  
• Gear & Equipment (general info, coolers, fridges, solar, bedding/sleeping, kitchen/cooking)
  
• Interior/Exterior Set-ups & Accessories (mats, awnings, side tents, chairs, etc.)
  
• Camping & Traveling Tips
  
• Camping Topics (stealth, campgrounds, tin-top camping)
  
• Hot-weather Camping
  
• Cold-weather Camping
  
• Showers
  
• Modifications
  

##This thread is locked. If you have topics you wish to be added to the FAQ, PM them to a moderator to have them added.##

[kamzcab86]

►General

■Type/Model information
Which model do I have/am I looking at?
Bus Buyer's Guide/PPI Lists
After Purchase List
Body differences during the production run
Paint colors & codes: the complete list
M code List
Full-camper vs. Weekender/MV debate - v.1
Full-camper vs. Weekender/MV debate - v.2
Full-camper vs. Weekender/MV debate - v.3
Riviera vs. Westy debate
High-top vs. Pop-top debate
USA vs. Canadian Westy: What are the differences?
Bay Window vs. Vanagon (reliability) - v.1
Bay Window vs. Vanagon - v.2
Bay Window vs. Vanagon - v.3
Bay Window vs. Vanagon (camper) - v.4
Bay Window vs. Vanagon (family camper) - v.5
Bay Window vs. Vanagon (camper) - v.6
Bay Window vs. Vanagon (camper) - v.7
Syncro virgin guidance
Official Syncro 16 Thread
Gas mileage comparisons

■VIN (Vehicle Identification Number)
1981+ VIN decoder
1980 VIN decoder
VIN topics
VIN / M-code plate decoder

Notes:
a) The four Z's stamped into your vehicle's chassis are simply filler digits during initial assembly ~ all VWs are built this way. During final assembly, the vehicle receives its official VIN that you see on the dash: For USA/Canada, the Z's are replaced by the required digit information; for all other countries, the Z's remain (countries outside North America do not require the info provided by digits 4, 5, 6 & 9). If the rest of the VIN matches up to the dash and/or door jamb VIN, everything is fine.

b) Chassis number: Chassis number is specifically the year digit + sequential production number digits in the VIN. Many times parts are dependent upon your car's chassis number, which is VIN-dependent, often called a VIN-split. An example of this:
To 25-E-11290
From 25-E-11291

The "25" is not always used. The "To E-11290" would indicate the part is for all Vanagons up to 1984 (E) with VIN sequential production number of 11290.

c) All 1981+ Vanagon VINs are 17-digits and begin with "WV".

■Engine Code
Engine serial number/code location

■Transmission Code
Trans code list

■Vehicle Care/Maintenance
Fluids & Capacities
Who uses what to clean where?

■Terminology
Acronyms, initialisms, abbreviations & their definitions

■Lifting van with jack/hoist
Hi-lift jack
Floor jack & jackstand support points
Jack Safety

■Towing
Towing topics
What do you tow with your van?
Towing an auto trans vanh
Anyone tow their van?
Connecting a tow bar
Tow Bar for Vanagon
Emergency Towing

Problems with AAA towing coverage
AAA vs. Good Sam

Custom trailer build

Trailer hitch topics
Burley Motorsports hitch install
GoWesty hitch with motorcycles?

■Insurance & Accidents
Insurance ~ General Info
Which insurance?
Insuring a Westy as a Motorhome
Stated Value vs. Agreed Value ~ external link
Insurance policies for your Vanagon
How do I prove my Westy's value to the insurance company?
Document Your Van!

Insurance ~ Post-accident
Insurance wants to total my Westy
Westy insurance madness - how to deal with your insurance co. post-accident

Accidents
Death of the Westy
RIP Westy Syncro
Real life crash test
Wrecked '86 Syncro Westy ~ getting fixed

■Thefts & Theft-proofing
How To Post Your Stolen Van
The Samba Stolen Van Tally

Vanagon Theft Statistics

Theft-proofing Your Van ~ v.1 - locked
Theft-proofing Your Van ~ v.2

Kill Switch: Coil vs. Fuel Pump
Adding a Kill Switch -- fuel pump circuit
Adding a Kill Switch with Relay -- fuel pump circuit
Why Use a Relay with Fuel Pump Kill Switch?
Using Defrost Switch as Kill Switch
Where To Install a Kill Switch

GPS locators/tracking devices

■Repair Shops, Parts/Products Information, Technical Info, Online Manuals, & Apps
Repair shops:
Roadhaus: List of repair shops
Van Alert ~ repair shops, stolen van alerts
Aircooled Interstate Rescue Squad

Parts & product information:
List of alternate & NLA replacement parts
Product reviews
Karma - Part it forward - FREE parts (sticky)

Technical Info & Online manuals:
Vanagon Maintenance -- The Master To-Do List
Vanagon Technical Information Index DEAD LINK
Vanagon Technical Service Bulletins DEAD LINK

AFC training manual
D-Jetronic fundamentals
D-Jetronic manual
L-Jetronic manual - online
L-Jetronic manual - PDF
Digijet ProTraining Manual (begins on page 45)
Digijet ProTraining Manual (zip file)
Digifant ProTraining Manual ~ Revised (Double-sided Pages)
Digifant ProTraining Manual ~ Revised (Single-sided Pages)
Digifant ProTraining Manual ~ original
Service Training Manual: 1986 Vanagon & Syncro
Service Training Manual: Solving Drivability Problems
Workshop Time Manual
Links to 1.9L engine rebuild manual
Diesel ProTraining Manual

Tools:
DIY diagnostic/wiring bypass tool for Digifant
How to test Hall Sender
Tester For Hall Sender
Essential tool list
Luxury tools
Stuck/Broken Fasteners
Oscilloscope Waveforms for Diagnosis

Parts:
Spare parts ~ What to carry on road trips?
2.1 What Size Studs, Nuts and Bolts?

Apps:
Van Alert

■Van Fires: Why They Start, How To Prevent Them, & How to Put Them Out
Why/Where They Start & Preventative Measures:
Fuel system
Overloaded headlight circuit
High resistance in A/C circuit
Power steering switch connectors, idle stabilizer valve circuit, un-fused fuel injection power supply

Fire Suppression:
Killing Battery Power in a Fire
Fire... then what?!
Putting out an engine fire
Onboard automatic fire suppression systems
Blazecut fire suppression system
Westy fire extinguisher: What fits in stock bracket?
Kidde extinguisher recall

■Owners' Realm
Vanagon Registry
What did you do to your van today? (sticky) ~ what WORK you did TO your van today
Things your van did recently (sticky) ~ what work or play your VAN did today (any "to" posts made in this thread will be deleted)
Meet the faces behind the screen names
Stories of getting your new van
Dogs and Vans

[kamzcab86]

Engine, Cooling, Fuel, Exhaust, Ignition, & Electrical

(For conversion/swap info, see next section/post.)

General info
Gasket Identification
Vacuum leaks: What/where to check - v.1
Vacuum leaks: What/where to check - v.2
Cleaning the engine - v.1
Cleaning the engine - v.2
Stigma attached to WBX?
Timing
Rod bolt failure!
Breather hose collapse
Cleaning the ISV
Fresh pistons and engine break-in
Crankshaft end play
What is this mystery plug in the engine bay?!
2.1L DJ engine specs/info

Building the WBX engine:
2.1 WBX assembly hardware
What gaskets go where
Building a 2.2
2.1 or 2.2 in a 1.9 case
Pics of a WBX build
2.1 rebuild
Performance WBX motors
Supercharging a WBX

Cylinder heads & valve drive (15)
Head gasket replacement

GoWesty heads

Ratio rockers for the WBX – v.1
Ratio rockers for the WBX – v.2

Collapsible Pushrod Tubes for the WBX – v.1
Collapsible Pushrod Tubes for the WBX – v.2

Hydraulic lifters:
Clean / Bleed Lifters
Bleed/Clean Lifters 2
Official WBX lifter/tappet clatter thread
Noisy valves/lifters – v.1 (locked; use official thread)
Noisy valves/lifters – v.2 (locked; use official thread)
Noisy valves/lifters – v.3 (locked; use official thread)
Adjusting hydraulic lifters
Bleeding lifters!

Lubrication system (17)
OEM oil cooler seal replacement
External oil cooler – WBX
External oil cooler – air-cooled engines
Vanagon External Oil Cooler Install - Rear Fender

Oil pump:
Oil pump install
Oil pumps

Engine oil:
Official Vanagon Oil & Filter Thread 2.0
Official Vanagon Oil & Filter Thread - locked, please use updated topic above
Official air-cooled Vanagon oil discussion thread
Official Vanagon oil weight/grade discussion
Synthetic oil discussion
ZDDP levels discussion
All other oil threads will be locked!

Oil Pressure:
Pressure sender photo (at end of thread)
Idiot light woes – v.1
Idiot light woes – v.2
Low oil pressure links
Oil pressure-related rod bearing failures
2.1-specific oil pressure questions
Dynamic oil pressure testing
Another pressure thread

Problems:
Stripped oil drain plug head

Cooling system (19)
Problems:
Consolidated cooling system topic listing various problems and solutions
Rebuild your Temperature Gauge
Radiator fan won't shut off
Radiator fan won't turn on
Overheating
Radiator fan fuse getting hot

General info:
Coolant Flow 2.1 system, New Diagrams (12/2020) both Hot and Cold
Adding toggle switch to control radiator fan
Can you hear your low-speed fan?

Filling the cooling system:
Coolant/anti-freeze recommendations
Coolant/anti-freeze colors
No mess system bleeding
The Libby Bong
Cooling system flush and bong fill

Coolant pipes:
Stainless coolant pipes – pt. 1
Stainless coolant pipes – pt. 2
Stainless coolant pipes – pt. 3
Stainless coolant pipes - pt. 4 ("don't use 'em")
Stainless coolant pipes - pt. 5

Hoses:
Thermostat housing info
Alternate cooling hoses
Blue silicone replacement hose
VW to NAPA hose conversion chart
Cadillac radiator hose for '84 Vanagon
NAPA hoses for early Vanagons
NAPA hose replacement for 1.9L
Hose clamps
2.1L hose spring clamp guide
Subaru cooling system with Burley pipe

Leaks:
Subaru stop leak
Subaru coolant conditioner warning

Fuel system (20, 23, 24)
20) Fuel Supply:
Replacing fuel lines - VERY IMPORTANT - A "MUST" READ!
E10 (Ethanol) Gasoline and the WBX - v.1
E10 (Ethanol) Gasoline and the WBX - v.2 (locked; use topic above)
Which brand of fuel do you use? - v.1 (locked; use topic below)
Which brand of fuel do you use? - v.2
Which octane to use?
87 vs. 93 octane

Gas mileage comparisons
Pressure testing
Fuel line clamps
Nice pictures of hoses and clamps
Replacement fuel rails: GoWesty vs. Van-Cafe vs. others
Fuel rail fix
Alternate fuel pump
Alternate Ford / Napa fuel pump and others
Fuel pump kill switch
ECU chip tuning - Look for links
Vent tube repair
Syncro fuel tank removal & reseal
Installing Megasquirt Injection on a 2.1
Installing Microsquirt Injection
installing new wire terminal on the oxygen sensor

Fuel tank/fueling issues:
Repairing a sticky/stuck gas cap lock cylinder
Vanagon doesn't trip the fuel pump auto-shutoff in time
Overfilling at fill-ups
Gas filler neck burps during refill
Fix for Fuel Tank Burp
Leaking fuel during & after fill-up
Finding a puddle of gas under your van
Fuel tank leaks
Gas smell after fill-up
Gas smell after fill-up v.2
How does the 2WD filler neck attach to tank?
Replacement gas tank review
Gas tank vents

Fuel tank re-seal

24) Fuel Injection:
Digijet / Digifant: What Are the Differences?
L-Jet / Digijet / Digifant: What Are the Differenes?
DIY diagnostic tool for Digifant (no run/no start situations)
AFM and FI part interchange
Replacing injector connector
Aftermarket injectors for 1.9 and 2.1
Install a FUSE for the fuel injection system
Wiring and connectors
TPS adjustment
Air-flow meter (AFM) adjustment procedure ~ Digifant
Troubleshooting rich/lean conditions ~ Digijet/Digifant
Troubleshooting stuck open ICV/ISV (high idle)
Idle Control Module issues (high idle) & cheap fix

Throttle Body (TB) fixes:
JB Weld fix for worn out TB
JB Weld fix – pt. 2
Throttle switch

Exhaust/emissions system (26)
Problems:
Failed emissions

Breather Tower operation and problems

General info:
Cleaning exhaust piping - v.1
Cleaning exhaust piping - v.2
Tuned exhaust for the WBX
Fitting an aftermarket stock exhaust
Generic Bosch O2 sensor
3-wire heated O2 sensor for vans up to 1985
Testing the O2 sensor circuit ~ Digifant
Testing the O2 sensor circuit ~ Digijet
Replacing charcoal in vapor canister
Charcoal canister replacement
Acorn Nuts on Exhaust Studs


Electrical: battery, alternator, ground locations (27)

Bentley Service Manual Wiring Diagram Index

Battery:
Your van takes a Group 41 battery right behind & under the passenger seat. Smaller replacement, particularly for Westfalia campers: T5.
You can place an auxiliary battery, if not already equipped, behind/beneath the driver seat; see below.

Ground locations:
1.9L vans
2.1L vans

Alternator:
Rebuild the Voltage Regulator
Inexpensive alternator regulator/brush set
High output alternator for a Subaru conversion
Adjustable regulator
Subaru conversion alternator light
Make Your Own Alternator to Starter to Power Terminal Wire

Alternator bracket: stripped mounting holes
Alternator bracket: broken mounting studs -v.1
Alternator bracket: broken mounting studs - v.2
Alternator bracket: broken mounting studs - v.3
Alternator bracket: broken mounting arm
Alternator bracket: modifications for reinforcement

Auxiliary battery:
Auxiliary Battery, Solar, & Accessory Setups: Pictures & Diagrams
Aux battery install
Another aux battery w/ pix
Biggest aux battery in stock location
Aux battery setup
Weekender aux battery relay wiring
Aux battery, microwave, inverter, & lighting install
Portable Power Packs / Solar Generators

Solar panels:
Solar panels to fit Westy luggage rack
Costco solar panel
Solar panel advice
Going Solar ~ incorrect topic number; bad link
More solar panel discussion topics

Power distribution:
Moving accessory power from main battery to aux battery ('86-'91 Vanagons)
Good Yandina wiring diagram
12 volt accessory outlets - Where are yours?
House Battery, Yandina, Xantrex & Atwood Install

USB port power:
Topic #1
Topic #2

Ignition system

Spark Plugs - WBX & air-cooled:
NGK B6ES (#7432)
NGK BP6ES (#7333)
NGK BP6ET (#1263) - most recommended

Problems:
1986-1991: Burnt D15 pin on relay panel
No start, no headlights, no blower fan, & no wipers: Ignition switch and/or X-relay
No start, but power to accessories & fuel pump: Ignition switch, bad ground connections, faulty starter and/or connections, and/or park-neutral switch (A/T only)
Starter engages, but after a slight delay: Most likely faulty ignition switch
DIY bypass tool for diagnosing no-start condition
Cranks, but no start: no spark v.1
Cranks, but no start: no spark v.2 (faulty Hall sender)
Cranks, but no start: no spark v.3 (bad ground)
Cranks, but no start: no spark v.4 (faulty tach/oil pressure warning wiring at instrument cluster)
Cranks, but no start: spark
Cranks, but no start: Air-cooled
No crank, no start
Slow crank & no hot start
Intermittent no start
Starts then dies
Hot start: what is it?
Hot Start problem: 1985 1.9 Vanagon
91 Westy: intermittent high idle/hot start problems....
Hard start in hot weather
"Hot start" problem with a twist
No Start, Add +12v wire
Test Hall Sender, Make Tester
Set Ignition Timing

General info:
Replacing & testing ignition switch ~ DIY Guide (PDF)
Key-in power (Su circuit) not shutting off -- fixing the problem
Engine mystery plug
Installing push-button ignition switch
Distributor (dizzy) rebuild
Hall Sender/generator R&R ~ Digifant

Starter:
TDI starter upgrade topics
High torque starter overhaul
Bosch vs. high torque starter
Park-Neutral safety switch cleaning and adjustment
Auto trans: Red/white wire on terminal 50

[kamzcab86]

►Engine Conversions/Swaps/Rebuilds

■Who Does Conversions or Rebuilds? ~ in-house and DIY installs
Upgraded/Rebuilt WBX
Bus Depot/AVP Worldwide ~ PA
GoWesty ~ CA (DIY)
Rocky Jennings ~ WA
Vanistan ~ NM (DIY) -- No longer doing full rebuilds
Other WBX builders

WBX rebuilders to avoid:
GEX rebuilds
Waterboxer, Inc. (aka JLP Engines/Jake Lake/Ken Morgan)
URLs related to the above:
waterboxer.com
outletengines.com
jlpengines.com
2014 lawsuit information against Waterboxer, Inc.

Air-cooled rebuilders:
Headflow Masters ~ CA
Jake Raby ~ GA
Bus Depot/AVP Worldwide

Subaru
523Rods - VW Specialists ~ Richmond, CA
Ben's Place ~ Quebec, Canada
The Buslab ~ Berkely, CA
Europro ~ Costa Mesa, CA
Metric Motors ~ Centerville, UT
Rocky Mountain Westy ~ Ft. Collins, CO
Small Car Performance ~ Seattle, WA
Subagon ~ Redding, CA
Transporter Werks ~ Raleigh, NC
Vanaru ~ NY
VanGo Conversions ~ Seattle, WA
Wild Westy ~ Boulder, CO

Ford Zetec
Bostig ~ MA & OH (DIY)

Tiico
NLA

Diesel
Van-Again ~ NJ (DIY)

Volkswagen 1.8T
H2OVanagon/Stephan's Auto Haus ~ Sacramento, CA
Mr. Gas ~ Colorado Springs, CO

■General Conversion Info for Specific Engine Types
Never ending engine conversion debate: Preferred Engine Conversion
What’s your ideal engine replacement?
Bostig, Vanaru, GEX: Which is right for us?
Subaru vs. Bostig/Zetec vs. WBX
Subaru vs. Zetec – pt. 1
Subaru 2.5 vs. Zetec – pt. 2
Subaru vs. Zetec: cost comparison
Subaru vs. Zetec: Which is quieter/smoother?
Subaru vs. Zetec: Which is best for auto trans?
Subaru vs. Zetec: Who has driven both?
Tiico vs. Bostig/Zetec
Tiico vs. Subaru
Tiico vs. GoWesty engines
Repair WBX or replace?
DIY or pay someone?
Engine conversion vs. resale value – pt. 1
Engine conversion vs. resale value – pt. 2

■Upgraded WBX
Tencentlife/Vanistan:
Tencent/Vanistan Engine Review - 2008
Tencent/Vanistan Engine Review - 2010
Tencent/Vanistan Engine Review - 2011
Tencent/Vanistan Engine Install Thread - 2011
Tencent/Vanistan Engine Review - 2014
Tencent/Vanistan Service Review - 2009
Tencent/Vanistan vs. Zetec Power - 2009
Where Tencent/Vanistan engines reside

GoWesty:
Official GoWesty 2.2/2.3/2.4/2.5 engine thread

■Subaru
General info:
Subaru conversion help ~ requires Yahoo account
Subaru conversion fault codes
Which Subaru engines are available for conversions?
Will a Subaru overpower my auto trans Vanagon?
Automatic rebuild options for Subaru conversion
Anything need to be done to an A/T with Subaru conversion?
Subaru "Frankenmotor" for the Vanagon - really good!
Another Frankenmotor build plus install into an AC van!
Subaru conversion temperature gauge reading
Subaru 2.2 header
Subaru fantasy header
Great Subaru header debate
Electronic dash mounted VSS
What oil are you using in your Subaru conversion?
Tom Shiels' thermostat housing for EJ22 or EJ25

Subaru 4 cylinder:
EJ22 Subaru swap into 1984 Vanagon
EJ22 in 1985 Westy
EJ25 Subaru swap
EJ25 Subaru swap – pt. 2
Subaru STI install
RMW Subaru kit build

Subaru 6 cylinder:
Another SVX install
SVX into 1987 Vanagon
Another Subaru swap
Subaru EG33 conversion adventure
Subaru H-6 conversion
Subaru H6 install (EZ30)

■Volkswagen Inline-4 (I-4/I4) ~ see Tiico inline-4 below
I-4 debate
I-4 conversion info
50-degree I-4 install hydraulic engine mounts
1986 Inline Gas Vanagon Conversion

■Volkswagen 1.8T
1.8T conversion details/discussion
Stephan's Auto Haus conversion kit
50-degree 1.8T install
Another 1.8T hits the road

■Volkswagen VR6
Vanagon VR6 questions
VR6 in an A/T Vanagon?
VR6 engine: Can we make this fit?
VR6 swap?
Will EuroVan trans work in Vanagon with VR6?
Vanagon VR6 conversion
Vanagon Carat VR6 Project – The Build

■Bostig/Zetec
(Ford Zetec is the engine, Bostig is the company doing/offering Zetec conversions.)
Bostig web site
Which conversion kit to buy?
Where to get a Zetec?
Final cost for Bostig?
Anyone done the Bostig conversion?
Why Bostig?
A Bostig conversion
A Zetec conversion
Still lost about Zetec
Bostig upgrades & add-ons
Bostig turbo
Bositg surpercharged
Bostig Zetec review after 2000 miles
Zetec with auto trans?
Zetec auto trans hose routing
Zetec power figures

■Tiico Inline-4 (I-4/I4) ~ see VW inline-4 above
Tiico parts and information
Tiico better than Bostig/Zetec or Subaru?
To Tiico or not to Tiico?
Tiico questions – where to get answers
Tiico with auto trans?
Tiico diesel
Tiico 2.0L: What do you think?
Thinking of buying a Tiico-converted van: Should I be scared?
Tiico engine fire
Tiico ticking
Tiico running crappy
Info on Tiico ECU's from FAS

■Audi
Audi V8
Pros and cons of Audi V6
Audi V12 TDI
Audi 5 cyl. AAN and 3B engines
Audi 2.5L by Eurospec/Overland (w/ more AAN & 3B info)
Audi 5000 mounts & bracket strength

■Porsche
Porche engine in Vanagon?
Done before: Porsche 924 or 944 engine in Vanagon?
Porsche 924 2.4L engine?
Will a 944 work in a Vanagon?
Porsche 911 3.0L

■Diesel
VW diesel-specific forum
Diesel troubleshooting info
Club 80-90 forum
5-cylinder TDI install
5-cylinder diesel characteristics
TDI conversion information
Subaru diesel

AAZ turbo diesel-specific topics:
What does a good AAZ feel like?
AAZ: A learning experience
AAZ into 1988 Vanagon
AAZ turbodiesel into 1986 Vanagon Syncro
Turbo air blower, electric water pump, and engine surge issues
Oil blow-by and wastegate issues
Airflow, Scoops, Vents, and High Temps
Intermediate shaft bearing failure
Serpentine belt broke, timing belt in bad shape (timing off), and engine died
Oil seepage at valve cover
Injector lines: Hard vs. braided
Phantom oil leak
Injection pump info
Glow plug circuit blowing 50A fuse
Function of the turbo cooling blower?
Oil cooler options
Won't start in cold weather; starts in warm weather, but needs to warm up before driving

■Air-cooled to Water-cooled, or vice-versa
Air to water: Anyone done it?
Air to water: Should I? – pt. 1
Air to water: Should I? – pt. 2
Water to air: Anyone done it?

[kamzcab86]

Clutch & Transmission

General Information
Fluid & Temperatures
Gear oil recommendations - auto and manual (locked)
Redline gear oil getting a bad rap? -- ongoing general gear oil topic, with Redline being the focus
Did GL-5 destroy my 3/4 slider?
Trans temperature readings
Vanagon Axle Lengths
Vanagon Gear Ratios vs. Tire Size Calculator ~ XLS spreadsheet


Automatic vs. Manual Debate
2005
2005
2008
2009
2009
2011
2012
2015
2015
2017
GoWesty's Opinion

Clutch, controls (30)
Clutch job questions and hints
Clutch pedal replacement in 1/2 hour

Torque converter (32)
NAPA Torque Converter Seal

Manual transmission (34, 35)
General Info:
Manual gearbox failures and solutions
Syncro trans rebuild
Failing Syncro Rebuilt Transaxle
M/T cooler: ports and parts
Transmissions for Dummies
Redline gear oil debate
Syncro: Changing front & rear diff oil
Limited slip 1
Limited slip 2
2WD Limited Slip Experience
Transmission rebuild
Manual trans cooler

Shifter linkage:
Shift linkage
Shifter alignment
Odd shift pattern fix
More shifter adjustment
Finding lost gears
Shift rod ear fix
Shifter damage
Shifter repair
Shift rod repair 1
Shift rod repair 2
Shifter rebuild

Repair shops:
Arizona Transaxle - Phoenix, AZ (602-269-1444 | 3863 N 38th Ave.)
German Transaxle - Bend, OR (541-382-7723 | 2185 NE 2nd St.)
AA Transaxle - Duval, WA (425-788-4070 | 29924 NE 173rd St.)
Mr. Gas - Colorado Springs, CO (719-220-0975 | 3407 N Prospect St.)
Rancho Transaxles - Fullerton, CA (800-304-8726 | 1015 E Elm Ave.)

Automatic transmission (37, 38 )
Problems:
How To Check ATF Level
ATF smells like gear oil
Leaking after rebuild
Troubleshooting the 010 transmission
Campground rebuild
Intermittent shifting troubleshooting & rebuild
English translation of German repair manual
Adjust Accelerator Pedal and Kick down Function, (Common Sense Method)
Replace Throttle Body Kick-down Spring Clip With 5mm Nut
How to Replace Throttle (gas pedal) Cable

General Info:
Is an A/T good for a Westy?
Should I be afraid of an A/T?
Building a better auto trans
How to change the ATF
How to replace final drive oil seals
A/T cooler: Aftermarket installation guide
A/T cooler: options
A/T cooler: GoWesty vs. VanCafe vs. stock
A/T cooler: ATF flow direction
Freshening up an A/T: To-do list and what to buy
Good hints and parts source URL
Park/neutral safety switch install/adjust
Auto trans shifter console gap filler/cover

3.3:1 Ring and Pinion for A/T
3.25:1 R&P for A/T

Swapping from A/T to M/T
Should I swap from A/T to M/T?

Repair shops:
Automatic Transmission Experts - Phoenix, AZ (602-274-5792 | 4422 N 7th Ave.)
German Transaxle - Bend, OR (541-382-7723 | 2185 NE 2nd St.)

Differential (39)

Transmission Swaps/Alternatives
Manual
UN1: What is it?
UN1 + Subaru install

[kamzcab86]

►Suspension, Brakes, and Steering

■Suspension ~ General info
2WD springs
GoWesty Zero-lift Springs
GoWesty 2WD Lift Springs
GoWesty Syncro Lift Springs
GoWesty 2" Lift Springs ~ Syncro review
Lifting a 2WD
Syncro: To Lift or Not To Lift
GoWesty vs. Van-Cafe springs
Shocks for GoWesty lift springs
Aftermarket springs
OEM vs. aftermarket shocks
Shock brand discussion
Koni shocks discussion
Koni shock install
Monroe shocks discussion

■Front wheel suspension (40)
More travel out of front shocks
Complete front-end rebuild
Bushing kit: Buy complete & from where?
Control arm bushings: squeaks to complete failure
Powerflex bushings
Best ball joints
Front Bushings, Lots of Photos
$45 Syncro U-joint replacement
Whiteline anti-sway bars
Addco Sway Bars
Addco sway bar install hints

■Rear wheel suspension (42)
Rear Axle Lengths
Removing rear axle nut
930 CV axle length
Saggy rear end
7 steps to a happier back end: fixing the Vanagon sag or Westy lean
Best shocks
Best CV boots
VW Tiguan Axle Boots
Broken CV bolts
Rear wheel bearing replacement
More rear bearing madness
Rear wheel bearing: repacking with grease
Rear wheel bearing: repacking with grease using needle

■Wheels, tires, alignment (44)
General info - tires:
Guide: Five Tire Rotation, Syncro & 2WD
Load ratings
Tire safety: load ratings, PSI, etc. - v.1
Tire safety: load ratings, PSI, etc. - v.2
HydroEdge vs. Vanco; load ratings
Tire differences
XL tire does NOT equate to RF
The need for spacers / proper ET
Heavy 2WD Westy chopping up tires
DIY wheel alignment

General info - wheels:
What fits? Ultimate thread!
What fits? Ultimate thread! – pt. 2
Safe ET (offset)
Torque specs: aftermarket and stock
Stock alloy center cap paint

Tires & wheels – 14”:
Whitewalls
14" tire options - 2012
14" tire options for a Westy - 2010
14" tire options - 2010
14" tire options - 2010 (w/ General Altimax warning)
14" tire options - 2009

Tires & wheels – 15":
Installing Audi brakes & wheels on a Syncro
15" tire options
Modifying spare tire carrier for 215/75R15 BFG
15" wheel conversion
BRM discussion

Tires & wheels – 16":
HydoEdge vs. Yokohama & BFG....
Geolander 215/65/16
Tires for 16x7 wheels
16" in spare tire mount (dead photos)
16" tire options
Back to 16's

Tires and wheels – 17" and larger:
18" wheels

Spare Tire:
Modified spare tire clam shell to fit 215-65-16 tires
Rear swing-away tire carriers - post new questions/comments to this thread
Spare tire racks

■Brakes (46, 47)
46) Mechanical components:
GoWesty big brake kit (new in-house version)
Custom disc brakes – Great thread!
DIY big brake kits
Using Ford brakes
Using Ford brakes – pt. 2
Installing Audi brakes & wheels on a Syncro
More Syncro brake upgrading
Installing Porsche brakes
Porsche brakes – pt. 2
2WD brake conversion
Jaguar big brakes
Another BIG brake thread
[url= https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?p=8518905]Mercedes Benz Locking Front 2WD Spindle Nut[/url]

47) Hydraulic components:
Bigger brake booster
Caliper rebuild
Replacing flex lines/hoses - v.1
Replacing flex lines/hoses - v.2
Replacing hard lines
Power bleeding; cracks in reservoir

Rear brakes:
Rear drum assembly photos
Rear disc conversion for 14" wheels
Rear disc conversion for 15" wheels
Another rear disc setup
Rear disc conversion with EuroVan rotors

■Steering (48 )
How-to Guide: Power rack rebuild with photos
Power rack rebuild photos
Powerflex steering rack bushings
Fabricating and replacing power steering hoses (a few dead pictures)
Disection of high pressure hose
Electric Power Steering

Steering wheel:
Steering wheel exchange
Steering wheel exchange – pt. 2

Steering wheel / Ignition lock:
Ignition lock cylinder removal

Steering column "sheer bolts" - don't really sheer:
Look at this crash!

[kamzcab86]

►Body (Interior, Exterior) & HVAC

(For camper-specific equipment, see next section/post.)

■General information: dimensions, weights, paint, modifications, etc. (50)
Dimensions:
Van Length: 181"
Van Width: 74"
Van Height: height will vary between vans due to suspension, load, tires, etc.; generally speaking: 77" (2WD tin-top); 81" (2WD w/ pop-top); add 2" to those if 4WD
Vanagon & Westy dimensions/measurements
Sinka & Doka dimensions (metric)
Lower grille opening: 27½" X 6-3/8"
Volume: 17.78 cubic meters (627.84 cubic feet) - 2WD w/ pop-top
Pop-top: Yes, all are the same and are interchangeable
Westy beds: 45” X 74” (downstairs); 47” X 72” (upstairs)
Westy tables: 16¼" X 24¼" (front); 16¼" X 31-7/8" (rear)
Westy table leg diameters: 1.25" (early); 1.375" (late)

Sinka/Doka rear window dimensions

Engine dimensions

Weights:
Shell: 1375 lbs. (624 kg)
GVWR & curb weights ~ external link
Curb weights - v.1
Curb weights - v.2
2.0L engine: 300 lbs. (136 kg) - complete engine
1.9L engine: 287 lbs. (130Kg) - complete engine
2.1L engine: 350 lbs. (159kg) - complete engine
Manual trans: 91 lbs. (with oil)
Westy fridge: 30 lbs. (w/o door)
Westy upper bed weight limit

Protection:
Body cavity protection using factory/aftermarket preservative (cosmoline, etc.) ~ official VW literature
Corter van restoration - body and component protection/preservation
To bra or not to bra? - v.1
To bra or not to bra? - v.2
Which bra?

Painting & Restoration:
Door handles, etc...
Ideas
Emblem repair
Best products for plastic restoration
Using rust converters on parts and seams
Body repair manual

Rust worms:
Where you might find rust
Dealing with rust
Replacing side panel sheet metal
A rustoration

Modifications:
Adding grab handle to driver's side A-pillar - installation details
Adding grab handle to driver's side A-pillar and above front doors
Modifying the firewall for extra storage (2WD) - v.1 ~ no longer exists, use topic below
Modifying the firewall for extra storage (2WD) - v.2
Utilizing storage space under the floor (adding under-floor storage box)
DIY spare tire/clamshell storage container

■Hoods/lids ~ rear hatch (55)

■Doors (57, 58 )
57) Front doors:
Front Door Differences
Keyless door lock installation
Power window motor rebuild
Door handle disassembly
Interior rear hatch release/latch

Power door lock repair:
Power door lock fix ideas - v.1
Power door lock fix ideas - v.2
Power door lock fix ideas - v.3
Power door lock fix ideas - v.4
Power door lock fix ideas - v.5
Power door lock fix ideas - v.6

58 ) Rear (sliding) door:
Sliding door maintenance
Sliding door horizontal roller bearings
1985 ^ Sliding Door Alternative Rollers/Bearings
Early sliding door handle fix
Extending slider door hinge
UHMW Tape: Quieting the slider door + others
Sliding door hinge repair rebuild
$11 Sliding door screen (with photos)
Adding grab handle to inside of sliding door
Sliding door handle re-keying how-to
Modifying New Style Sliding Door To Fit Older Van

■Sunroof (60)

■Tarpaulin (61)
Doka/Sika tarpaulin/canopy suppliers

■Bumpers (63)
Bumper end cap repair
Remove Rear Clad Bumper, Carat GL

■Glass, window regulators (64)
Window insulating blankets/curtains

Windshield, front door windows:
Windshield sealant
Removing windshield and repairing rust
Removing/installing front door glass
Replacing manual window regulator
Manual regulator cleaning & lubing
Tightening the vent window
Repair Vent Window Mount

Side and rear windows:
Slider window rattle fix with pics
Adding opening rear side windows
Later rear window vents
Replacing rear window vent material
Installing jalousie windows into a Vanagon

Power windows and other gremlins:
Power window stuck down
Adding power windows & locks
Rebuilding power window regulators
Replacing power regulators with manual regulators
Replacing power regulators with manual – pt. 2
Budget window switches
Rewinding questions with pictures
Promex Italian aftermarket electric winders

■Exterior ~ accessories, side moldings, mirrors, grilles, etc. (66)
Curing floppy mirror syndrome ~ manual mirrors, v.1
Curing floppy mirror syndrome ~ manual mirrors, v.2
Curing floppy mirror syndrome ~ power mirrors
How to retrofit power mirrors
How to install LT mirrors
Subaru mirrors on a Vanagon
Jeep Wrangler mirrors on a Vanagon
DIY truck mirrors
List of replacement mirrors

Side steps

Alternative grille emblems

Decal files

■Seat belts (68 )
Installing 3-point rear seat belts
Adding 3rd rear lap seat belt & GoWesty shoulder belts to a Westy
Seat belt anchoring

■Interior: trim, accessories, etc. (70)
Dash removal
What else to do while replacing a front heater core - Dash is out in this case!

Installing a Weekender interior with Z-bed and table
Show me your interiors!

Flooring:
Wood flooring
Carpet & flooring options
Replacing the carpet: Should I stick with OEM?
Westy carpet replacement options
DIY cheap OEM floormats
GoWesty rubber floormats
Rubber floormat for a passenger van
VW carpet floormats

Consoles:
Deluxe Dash Console/Gauges/Heater Core Project
Deluxe dash console
Center console concept...and cup holder ideas
GoWesty center console
Center console ideas
Rhino Consoles-brand center consoles

Cup holders:
Dash-mounted CJ5 grab bar with cup holders and other accessories
Center console with cup holders
How to replace Multivan/Weekender cup holders
Where to mount flip-down cup holders? - v.2
Where to mount cup holders? - v.1
Cup holder options from other vehicles
Rear seat cup holders

■Seats (72)
Problems:
Rear seat won't unlatch

Alternative front seats
town and country stow and go 2nd row seats

General info:
How to remove front seats
Installing lumbar support
Installing bolt-on swivel seat base
Installing Carat-style jump seat
Installing Porsche seats
Installing Recaros
Installing Eurovan seats into Vanagon w/ pix
Installing Eurovan seats w/ pix – pt. 2
Seat rebuilding, cleaning and heaters
Passenger Seat Reclining Mod
Arm rests – disassembly and reassembly
Installing headrests into rear bench seat
Swivel Seat Base + link to Piano Hinge Mounting

■Seat upholstery, heating element (74)
Installing heated seat inserts

■Heater/ventilation (80)
Curing Hot Foot Syndrome
"Quick" vent flap repair
Cable mod
Replacing front heater core – with movies!
$50 "perfect" heater core search
$50 heater core – pt. 2
Front heater assembly
Rebuilding the front heater box with pictures
Heater core replacement
Heater removal issues
DIY cold weather front heater solution
Ford heater valve
Reseal OE VW Heater Core Plastic Tanks

Front heater fan:
Front blower motor rebuild with pics
R&R'ing front blower motor
Front blower motor replacement
Lubricating heater fan – Mullendore Port fix ~ original topic (locked)
Lubricating heater fan – Mullendore Port fix ~ continued discussion
Blower fan resistor
Blower fan resistor: Retrofitting/installing a (inexpensive) Jeep resistor
Rebuild blower fan switch

Rear heater:
Pictures of EVIL rear heater repair
More EVIL rear heater
Verbose rear heater repair
Rear heater core option
Removing rear heater: plugging the hoses/removing the T-fittings
Removing rear heater: plug or connect the hoses?
Rear heater hose restrictor

Alternate heaters:
Propex heater install locations: Pros and Cons
Installing Propex - dead photos
Installing Propex in rear cabinet
Installing Propex under rear seat - dead photos
Installing Propex under/in place of fridge - v.1
Installing Propex under fridge - v.2
Propex issues
Installing Atwood furnace

Additional aux heater info in the camping FAQ

■Air conditioner (87)
Converting your A/C system to Redtek - Great thread!
Rebuilding the "Older" A/C systems, upgrades: hoses, condenser, etc.
Rebuilding the newer "D" Pillar Controls Rear A/C
Compressors: Sanden 508 vs. Sanden 709 vs. aftermarket
Universal front A/C units
Westfalia A/C vents & removing plenum
A/C condenser replacement
Removing evaporator from a Westfalia
Adding second A/C zone
Fix That TinTop Duct Work!
A/C Electrical Fires in the "D" Pillar
PMW A/C Blower Fan Speed Control
Front Over Head A/C links
Westy A/C Intake Filter
Behr A/C Information

■Insulation, sound-deadening, odors, and rodent problems
Sound-deadening
Sound deadening – pt. 1
Sound deadening – pt. 2
Sound deadening – pt. 3
Sound deadening – pt. 4
Sound measurements
Sound-deadening comparison video
UHMW tape to quiet slider door and other noise spots

Insulation
Insulation & flooring pics
Transmission tunnel insulation – dead photos
Re-insulating engine lid
Re-insulating engine lid – pt. 2

Odors
Getting rid of "smelly van"

Rodent Problems
Plugging mice-accessible holes in your van
Mice prevention tips
Squirrel repellent methods
Mice entering van when camped - v.1
Mice entering van when camped - v.2
Mice in A/C cabinet
Dead mouse in vent system
Dead mouse in water tank
Cleaning up after mice infiltration
Damage a mouse can do: Chewed wiring, plastic, insulation, etc.

[kamzcab86]

►Camper: interior panels, roof, storage, cabinets, water tank(s), sink, tables, refrigerator, propane tank, seats, beds

■Roof (Pop-top/High-top) (75)
General info:
Repairing the tent canvas & screen
Pop-top push bar/lifting mechanism fix
Pop-top extension ~ fusing the luggage rack to the pop-top
The new high-top
The official high-roof thread: care, maintenance, travel & packing tips, photos
DIY Pop-top insulation
Pop-top safety ideas
Pop-top popped open while driving

Pop-top cleaning & restoration:
Exterior pop-top cleaning
Renewing the pop-top using Penetrol
Complete pop-top restoration
What do I use to paint the pop-top?
Painting the Pop Top
Removing mildew/mold from pop-top
Removing mildew/mold from pop-top – pt. 2
Removing mildew/mold/dirt from pop-top – pt. 3

Pop-top tent replacement:
Definitive Guide to Replacement Tent Options
Tent replacement: Tips and tools
Replacing the tent - v.1 (photos & video)
Replacing the tent - v.2

Roof-top storage:
Luggage rack covers
Roof Racks
Roof Top Storage
More roof racks
Luggage rack cargo net
Storage Containers for the Roof Rack
Homemade false gutter : a bit more versatile

Skylight / roof vent:
Skylight install / repair
Skylight swing arm repair
New Flexarms for the skylight
Easy Sun Screen for the Pop Top Sky light

■Interior & Interior Panels (75)
Installing Weekender/Multivan interior panels into regular passenger van
DIY Westfalia curtain instructions

■Storage & Cabinets (76)
Hidden Westy storage space
How to pack to reduce clutter
Stainless luggage tie-downs
Cheap Child's Cot Alternative
Storage container for luggage rack
Modifying firewall for storage
More Westy mods...
Additional storage info in the camping FAQ

Restore the kitchen trim
Laminate and T-molding (Gray laminate color: Pionite F39 SG204 N Mercury; or, Formica 927 58 Folkstone)
Laminate (tan/Beige color: Pionite ST 617)
Gray cabinet colors (paint, laminate, trim, etc.)
Adding fridge door to rear closet
Weekender kitchen
Weekender rear cabinet dimensions

■Tables (76)
Making a support sleeve for the rear table
Outdoor table mount
Modifying rear table for closet access

■Water Tanks (76)
Water tank level sensor & panel troubleshooting
Water tank filler key
Water tank filler key – pt. 2
Water Tank Freezing
Contaminated water tank
Cheap DIY gray water tank
Additional gray water tank info in the camping FAQ

■Westy Plumbing (76)
Fixes
Leaks
Fresh water supply and vent hose size: 3/8" ID
Fresh water hose replacement tips
Fresh water hose cleaning tips
Fresh water tank and hose sanitization tips

■Westy Sink (76)
Replacement parts
Adding a valve to drain line
Rerouting sink drain
Sink faucet/pump replacement
ShurFlo faucet vs. OEM

■Refrigerator / Reefer Madness (76)
Fridge is running, but I'm not using it: It's just the fan running, which is normal, especially if the van sits outside and in the sun. Simply pull the white fuse behind the driver's seat to shut it off (or install a toggle switch).
General discussion
General info for Dometic 182B auto ignition ('90-'91) - v.1
General info for Dometic 182B auto ignition ('90-'91) - v.2
Dometic maintenance & repair guide
Dometic 182B PDF Service Manual
Dometic 182B w/ auto igniter PDF Service Manual (1990-1991)
R&R with pix and fan install ~ photos are now gone (if anyone saved them, let us know!)
Repair shop tip
More tips and links
Lighting fix
Driving with fridge running on propane?
Temperatures
Ignitor mod
Door mod
Door mod & cooling fans
Replacement projects
Coleman & Sunfrost refrigerators
TruckFridge installation

■Stove (76)
How to remove stove front
DIY Guide: Rebuilding your stove valves
Disassembly of Burners
Doubling the flame size - note: make sure your stove's gas lines, jets and nozzles are working properly and are clean, and that your propane tank is full before doing this mod (i.e. read entire thread first!)

■Propane Tank (76)
Inspection/Certification
Removal
Is the propane tank a hazard?
Any reason to not leave tank valve open?
Leaks / Regulator info
Leaks – pt. 2
Problem(s) filling propane tank

Tank restoration and valve purchase info
Valves revisited
Repainting
Adapting to run on propane bottles
Adapting to run on BBQ tank w/ photos
Adapting to run on one pound bottle
Installing an Extend-A-Stay fitting
Bigger propane tank
Bigger propane tank and propane distribution - pt. 2
Propane tank restore (Eletrolytic Rust Removal)

■Seats and beds (77)
Problems:
Rear seat won't unlatch

General info:
Upper bed extensions

[kamzcab86]

Electrical System

Aux batteries, solar systems, ignition, etc.: also see "Electrical: battery, starter, alternator (27)" in Engine section above.

Instruments, radio (90)

Instrument cluster blue foil:
GoWesty replacement kit

Warning lights:
OXS light reset

Speedometer/Odometer:
Odometer fix ideas
Odometer shaft retainer
Installing late Vanagon cluster into early Vanagons without tachs
Speedo plastic repair
Instrument cluster LED lighting
Cruise Control Options

Aux Instruments / Extra Gauges / Tach:
The Gauge Thread
Gauge faces & tach install
Oil pressure and pressure sender install
Voltminder - a volt gauge with alarm
Installing speedo/tach from A2 chassis VWs (Fox/Golf)

Coolant Temperature Gauge:
Testing the warning light & level sensor
DIY gauge testing at home
Coolant pressure gauge ideas
Repair - verbose
Coolant sensor and possible blinky light fix

Radios/stereos/head units/receivers:
Van stereo 101
Audio installation
Official Stereo/Radio Recommendations Thread
Current radio choices - locked; please use official thread above
Receiver recommendations - locked; please use official thread above
Weather band radio with AM/FM, CD, MP3, aux, etc. that fits
Key-in power modification
Refurbishing OEM radio?

Speakers:
Sound insulation & audio install
Speaker recommendations
6-inch door speakers
6½-inch speakers using factory grilles

Cigar / Cigarette lighter socket:
Replacing the lighter
Green lighter bezel
Replacing cigarette lighter receptacle

Windshield wiper & washer (92)
2-way nozzles
3-way nozzles
Variable intermittent wipers

Lights
Front & side lights:
Adding headlight relays - v.1
Adding headlight relays - v.2
Installing H4 headlight bulbs for cheap – late Vanagon
Everything you need to know about headlight bulbs - thx Dogpilot
Daytime Running Lights: Installing, and modifying for high-watt bulbs
Daytime Running Lights: Factory system diagrams, installation, disabling
Party lights
Installing LEDs (includes a link to PDF bulb conversion table)
Cleaning headlamps
Hella units in Ford buckets
Projektzwo Lights

Headlight adjuster fixes (square lights):
Idea 1
Idea 2
Idea 3

South African grille (SA grille) & dual-round headlamps :
South African grille discussion
South African grille & light installation
Where to get SA grille lamps
DIY SA-like dual-round headlamp grille

Rear lights:
Adding bulbs to the tail lights
Adding bulbs to the tail lights – pt. 2
Adding more rear light to a Westy
More rear fog lamps

Third brake light ~ options
Third brake light ~ options & how to run wires
Third brake light ~ GoWesty
Third brake light ~ with turn signals

Interior Lighting:
Interior lighting project
Indiglo cluster lighting
Cruise control indicator light
Cold cathode tube swap
Installing LED bulbs (includes a link to PDF bulb conversion table)
Installing flexible LED lighting
Simple brake warning lamp reposition mod
Emergency brake light switch

Accessories
Inverters:
Installing an inverter
What size inverter?
Wiring up a Westy

Wiring

Bentley Service Manual Wiring Diagram Index

Wiring harness:
1.9L Digijet harness rebuild
1.9L ground locations
2.1L ground locations
Corrosion removal techniques
Horn upgrade via relay wiring

[kamzcab86]

►Modified, Restored, Rebuilt Vans

■Modifications & Customizations
Converting a GL to a Carat
V6 TDI
Converting a 2WD into a Syncro
Converting a Westy to a high-top
Fiberine high-top conversion
Converting a tin-top to a Westfalia camper - v.1
Converting a tin-top to a Westfalia camper - v.2
Mid-engine conversion
Breadbox build: Vortec 4.3 V6 conversion
Trailer made from a Vanagon
Build your own Doka
Another Syncro Tintop to Hightop Camper Conversion
1982 Subaru Westy build log

■Rebuilds & Restorations
Restoration Stories
1987 Syncro Camper (Big Red) Restoration with pictures
Corter van - Syncro restoration project
Rebuilding of a German Army Syncro
Kitchen rust: a pictorial rustoration
Footwell rust: a pictorial rustoration
I had to be brave...a rustoration
Syncro restoration
'86 Syncro restoration
'86 Syncro Westy rebuild
1988 Doka Restoration - dead photos
New Paint! Westy restoration + Carat body trim installed
Lucy, our Westy
1984 Doka Tragedy to Restoration
Syncro Westy Build Log - With Pics
1986 Inline Gas Vanagon Conversion
My Project Syncro
Green paint restoration

[kamzcab86]

Camping & Traveling With Your Van

Packing/Organization
Packing to reduce clutter ~ packing accessories
Rooftop storage boxes (aka rocket boxes)
Westfalia luggage rack: Hard-sided storage containers
Westfalia luggage rack: Soft-sided storage bags
Rooftop cargo net
What do you do with your stuff?
What do you put in your Westy cabinets?
Trailer set-ups

Gear & Equipment
General:
Folding/roll-up camp tables
Compact, comfy camp chairs
Camp lighting
Camping equipment list
Reading material
Spare parts to keep in the van
The essential tool list

Coolers & Refrigerators:
Fridge vs. cooler/ice chest
Portable fridge vs. installed

Portable fridges:
What portable fridge do you use?
What size portable fridge do you use/prefer?
TruckFridge vs. Engel
Edgestar
Dometic/Waeco

Dometic fridge replacements:
Which to go with?
TruckFridge vs. VitroFrigo
Fridge replacement projects

Solar
Panels:
Portable vs. Roof-mount
GoWesty portable solar system
Solar panel size?
Thin panels
Thin, flexible panels ~v.1
Thin, flexible panels ~v.2
Solar panels for Westy luggage rack
Solar hardware recommendations
Solar wiring connectors
How did you run wires?
Effects of long cable runs to controller
Solar with no permanent modifications
Additional solar topics

Charge controllers:
PWM vs. MPPT

Beds, Bedding, & Sleeping
Upper bed extensions
DIY child’s cot
Which way do you sleep on the bed?
Which side of the lower bed is more comfy?
How do you make your bed?
Sleeping bags
Mattress toppers – part 1
Mattress toppers – part 2

Kitchen
Stoves, grills, ovens, cooking:
Griddles
Portable propane grills
Pots & pans
Who uses their stove?
Converting stove to run on portable propane
Van-sized microwave ovens
Weekender kitchen

How do you cook when you camp?
Ritual & traditional food while camping
What do you eat out on the road?
Making toast
Making chili and other recipes
Cooking competition

Sink:
Who uses their sink?
Dish dry mat
Faucet

Gray water tank
Gray water tank options
Cheap DIY gray water tank
Westy gray water tank
Gray water drain enhancement
Gray water tank!
Eurocampers' gray water tank

Interior/Exterior Set-ups & Accessories
Camping setups – exterior
Mats & carpets for outside sliding door
Custom camping interiors
Privacy curtain behind front seats

Official Awning Options Thread
Dave Vickery-inspired DIY awning
$24 DIY awning
How many still have the A&E Trans-Awn 2000?
A&E Trans-Awn 2000 owner's manual
A&E Catalina 2500 owner's manual
A&E Catalina 2500 parts list

ARB Awning
ARB homemade bracket
Side tents - pt. 1
Side tents - pt. 2

General Camping & Traveling Tips
Camping tips
Westy camping tips
Long term camping checklist
Interstates & long term camping tips
Living out of a tin-top long-term

Mexico insurance

Camping with infants
Camping with kids
Camping/traveling with cats

General Camping Topics (Stealth/Campgrounds/Tin-top camping)
Campgrounds vs. Stealth
Off the beaten path camping
Is a Westy considered to be “self-contained”?
Dining, drinking & stealth overnighting
Crazy things you see at campgrounds
Camping in non-campers
Making a passenger van more camping friendly

Hot-weather camping
Portable air conditioning
DIY 12v portable air conditioning
Too hot in the van

Cold-weather camping
Snow camping & heat loss
Interior function & winter camping
Mods for cold-weather camping
Water tank & winter camping
Fanchers pop-top insulation
Movers’ blankets as pop-top insulation
DIY pop-top insulation
Propex auxiliary heaters
Mr. Heater/Little Buddy propane heaters

Showers
The Official Shower Thread
Adding a shower
Shower in your van
Shower with floor drain
Hot shower install – what pump to use
Ultimate Westy shower
Camping shower
How bad do I want that hot shower?

Modifications for Camping
Adding hot water system
Solar hot water
Hot water heater

Outdoor table mount

What’s your favorite mod?