1980 Westy

[jadppe]

Hello from the Bay Window group. I have an opportunity to get a 1980 Westy. I currently have a 78 sunroof bus and previously a 77 Westy. The guy wants 1800 bucks for it and it runs! BUT it's had an engine fire and he hasn't smogged it (california). Says it needs at least a cold start valve. Stove and sink work. Not sure about fridge.

So, at worst, would I be able to put 1980 westy furniture into my 78? At best, I'm assuming at least a 1000 bucks of work on the engine which still seems like a good deal to me. Or after an engine fire, is it likely the engine will need much more work or a replacement?

What do yall think?

Josh
_________________
Currently trying to fix up a 78 sunroof bus. 3rd bus in my life...2 late bay westies previously.

[danfromsyr]

really depends on how crispy the engine (and body compartment) got.
I've revived a 79bay after a brief engine fire and had to rebuild the wiring loom. but no seals were burned.

the vanagon camper interior will and won't quite fit into a bay, search the bay forum, it has been done but with some shortening to the cabinets.

a westy fridge often works and doesn't in the same sentance.
once lit they're great and frugal with cooling on propane. but sometimes are a pita to get to light. and only cool a %xx from ambient temps.. so if in new england OK, in the hot desert not so much.

how is the body? are you looking for a 2nd VW (project or driver)
a vanagon camper is alot roomier and functional thana Bay. but a aircooled vanagon is powered by the same 2.0l engine as a 78westy and weighs a few hundred pounds more. isn't as savy off road, but much more mild mannered ON the road..

the design trades somethings for others.. so it depends on what it is you are looking for to determine your satisfaction.
_________________