Bay window buyers guide
Bay window camper vans age really well, and there are lots of great examples around. But could you tell the difference between a solid example ready for the road and a rusty heap ready for the breakers?
This VW Bay Window camper van buyers guide should help you find a great example.
When buying any camper look out for...
• Rust, particularly on the bottom 6 inches all around...
• Rust on chassis box sections
• On front and rear outriggers
• On roof guttering, sills, wheel arches
• On floors in front of the rear wheels
• Behind front seats
• Under cover plates which can hide a horror story of trapped moisture and rust
Imports....
• Most imports are "dry" state so are nearly all rust free but you can still get rust so be careful!
• Ask to see the underside before wax oil or rust prevention is applied, see the body in its natural state.
• Ask to see the history, some owners leave recipts for body work repairs carried out.
Sellers....
• Use a trusted seller!! It's there ruputation on the line so that give you peace of mind!
• Ask if the camper has any warranty! If the seller is sure about what there selling expect somekind of warranty!
Check the engine carefully...
• Oil leaks near the gearbox flange usually mean an 'engine out' job
• In gearboxes listen for bearing whines
• Check all gears work and don't jump out of gear (a floppy gear change is normal)
• Pull and push the bottom pulley wheel: if you feel a loud 'clunk clunk' the engine needs a rebuild. Very small movement is OK
Other things to look out for...
• Inoperative heaters and controls - requiring new heat exchangers,
• Smell of petrol inside the vehicle usually means rubber pipes need replacing
• Tanks can also rust through where they come in contact with more rust
• Steering should be direct with hardly any play. If not check the steering box Get repairs advice from...
• Any experienced VW camper repair shop that's been there for more than 5 years
• Inspect a car they've restored or get a customer reference
Get spare parts from...
• eBay,www.VWKampers.com, www.justkampers.co.uk and www.vwhertitage.com
• Alan Schofield for most body panels.
• VW Motoring magazine for other leads
Prices you can expect to pay for a Bay (1967 onwards)...
• Totally original and unrestored with MOT £8000 - £20,000
• You can still buy new Bays built in Mexico, minibuses (c £18,000) or campers (c £25,000) - (£35,000)
• Restored with MOT £8000 - £30000 (Watch out for hidden patched over horrors)
• MOT'd but needing work £2000 - £6000
• A 'basket case' £1000 - £3000
This is just a rough guide, sometime it's best to go and look at a few campers and ask lots of questions!!
The advise @ VW Kampers is free! So if you do have any questions please feel free to Email or call us on 01273 411 774 / 07845684323
VW Kampers Ltd.