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nwester
Samba Member
Joined: January 11, 2012
Posts: 70
Location: Kelso, WA
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 Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 3:43 pm Post subject: 78 Riviera (pics) |
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Hi All,
Finally getting around to posting lots of pics of our new Riviera! Had a questionable beginning as it seemed we would never get him running right. Long story short, after multiple vacuum leaks were fixed, new exhaust, new alternator and voltage regulator, electronic ignition installed, new fuel lines and starter booster installed, he's running like a champ. He is far from perfect, some rust in the battery trays and a little on the lower edge of a couple of windows (which need new seals so the rust and seals will be addressed next summer), crappy paint job 7 years ago etc.
But overall, he is complete and in good shape, and he looks good from 30 feet  . Fuel injection intact and in great shape, all electrical working properly, heat actually works, original Riviera interior in remarkably good shape compared to what I've seen, with all camping pieces present, including the optional Coleman propane furnace, stove, working fridge, jump seat, sink cover, and front tray table. We've been out and about on several day trips, but can't wait to get in some overnight camping - soon!
Of course there are many ongoing projects in store for him, and as always, we will rely heavily on the excellent info and advice found here on this great Samba forum and community!
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89 Westy "GoGo"
78 Riviera "Ollie" |
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cc79westie
Samba Member
Joined: May 12, 2007
Posts: 468
Location: Greenport, N.Y.
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| Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 4:19 pm Post subject: |
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Very nice Riviera! I never saw one in sage green.. nice color 
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1979 Westfalia (Sage Green)
1966 Pontiac GTO
1977 Chevy Monza 5.0 V-8
1984 Datsun/Nissan 300ZX
1989 Plymouth Reliant K |
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babysnakes
Samba Member
Joined: August 19, 2008
Posts: 7150
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| Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 5:09 pm Post subject: |
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| Those might be the nicest Rivi cabinets I've seen. That looks to be a very good bus. |
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busdaddy
Samba Member
Joined: February 12, 2004
Posts: 52775
Location: Surrey B.C. Canada, but thinking of Ukraine
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| Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 5:41 pm Post subject: Re: 78 Riviera (pics) |
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X3, that's a nice one!
Does it have a radio listed on the M plate?, you don't see too many factory style antennas.
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Rust NEVER sleeps and stock never goes out of style.
Please don't PM technical questions, ask your problem in public so everyone can play along. If you think it's too stupid post it here
Stop dead photo links! Post your photos to The Samba Gallery!
Слава Україні! |
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streamr
Samba Member
Joined: February 26, 2007
Posts: 559
Location: Southwest FL
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| Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 6:27 pm Post subject: |
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I was never really a fan of the Riviera conversion, but yours looks really good. Maybe it's the color. Nice find!
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'03 MV |
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nwester
Samba Member
Joined: January 11, 2012
Posts: 70
Location: Kelso, WA
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| Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 6:57 pm Post subject: Re: 78 Riviera (pics) |
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| busdaddy wrote: |
X3, that's a nice one!
Does it have a radio listed on the M plate?, you don't see too many factory style antennas. |
No, radio not listed on M-code. So it wouldn't have had an antennae originally?
Thanks for the compliments. I confess I think I prefer the Westfalia camper layout in the late bay (more floor space and can turn front seats around), but I wanted an original green 78-79 (FI, hydraulic lifters) Bay camper with a full kitchen, and from what I understand, the deluxe Westy only came in tan those years. But I loved the idea of an original furnace, and a top that pops straight up. So as we have become more acquainted, I've become quite smitten with the Rivi - his funkadelic bulky brown cabinetry and plaid tweed has really grown on me. Dare I say he is way more cozy than our vanagon?? (Shhhh, don't tell)!
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89 Westy "GoGo"
78 Riviera "Ollie" |
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EZ Gruv
King of Plaid
Joined: December 10, 2002
Posts: 8576
Location: Las Vegas
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| Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 7:05 pm Post subject: |
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Very nice bus.
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Eric
1977 Deluxe Westfalia - 2.0L FI Type IV, Completely Original
Photographer for HotVWs, VolksWorld, AirMighty, VW Camper & Commercial, Hayburner, and more.
My Photography Page. |
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4play
Samba Member
Joined: March 31, 2006
Posts: 178
Location: IDAHO
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| Posted: Mon Jan 06, 2014 7:14 pm Post subject: |
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verry nice, wish mine was that complete.
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Yes I am a redneck
74 baja water cooled 2.2 suby
79 riviera |
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