Advice needed: Building a split window

[HippieCPA]

Longtime fan, first time caller here! I've long had dreams of buying a split window and fulfilling my dreams. For years I've delayed the decision and mainly due to cost OR having to wait a year to have my local shop rebuild one. So I have been looking lately at Brazilian buses and I am sure I'd get some flack here but I do have questions for those that wish to help. I'd greatly appreciate the feedback.

I'd be looking to buy a 71 to 75 split but due to my extensive volunteering with the Boy Scouts I'd need a camper insert. (See... I'm old and the kids have to tent it...I can crash in the bus!) I rarely have time for mechanical work these days so I'd prefer one in better mechanical shape especially so I don't have to worry wife and kids breaking down too much.

Here si a link at one I'm looking at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/12tmLA_aLBgQLM6ysMEc8zYDvj5sT4RuH

My questions are:
1. What sized engine would be best to look for? 1,500?
2. Is the fresh air vent something I definitely want to look for? Mind you we live in NC and it is so hot and humid here!
3. On that note would safari windows even help with humid days here?
4. How helpful is a Swamp cooler?
5. What else should I be looking for?

Thanks much!

[Lind]

[Eric&Barb]

[Who.Me?]

[EverettB]

[62DoKaGuy]

[Gwdghiaguy]

[Who.Me?]

[vwuberalles]

Would a swamp cooler even work on a split bus? Don't they attach at the top of a roll-up window?
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1973 Superbeetle: 1st car, owned since age 12. Update thread --> https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?p=9919140#9919140
1967 Kombi: Owned since age 17, Dad's retirement project.
1966 Beetle: My new project. (SOLD) Build thread--> https://www.thesamba.com/vw/forum/viewtopic.php?t=678040

[Eric&Barb]

[Abscate]

[Jensers]

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- Jens

[vwuberalles]

[Eric&Barb]

[Z]

[Z]

x2 on what was said above. If you won't be working on it, you'll need a good local shop involved, and pre-purchase is the time to involve them.

The power you have/need depends on a lot beyond engine size, so lots more to consider on that front. Many discussions to be found in the forums.

The fresh air vent is on all busses (since 55, etc.), so you shouldn't have to look for it? It's handy, and every little bit helps when it's hot. The bus you gave a link to has an unusual looking cover on the vent box....

Safari's are nice. They can be made to seal out rain pretty well, but their sealing issues are worth considering. When its hot and I'm sweaty, ANY wind is good, so I like them.

Swamp coolers don't work with humid environments, IMO.

Generally speaking, getting a bus is great. Getting one that you can hop in and just go drive any distance you want is possible, but not likely. The odds are, you will need to sort some (a lot of) things out first. There is a TON of info here. Start with the FAQs, read, ask questions, etc.

Good luck!

[HippieCPA]

Thanks sommbfor the advice so far. Very helpful. Please keep thoughts and tips coming.

[hitest]

Swamp coolers in my opinion should never be used in a parked vehicle. They provide possibly cooler, but very damp air- resulting in more humidity than any 50 year old camper should endure. All wood, textiles- every non-porous material will suffer to some degree. Going down the road- sure. Plenty of air exchange and drying inside happens. But if you want an old camper to have the creature comforts of a converted MB Sprinter- maybe a vintage bus is not the answer. I'm harsh but being honest here.
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[mandraks]

[Jensers]

$113 for a 115V AC unit you hang out the window and stay as cool as a cucumber while you sleep. You will need power - yes, but so will any vintage option.

I understand you to be asking about cooling options while on camp-outs with boy scouts so you can sleep in the bus? Not while driving around?
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- Jens