BUYING TIPS

1 RUST REPRIEVE?

Construction is simple, comprising a chunky ladder chassis that should be checked thoroughly for corrosion – particularly where the single leaf spring attaches at the front – plus the body mounting points. With so many living out their lives in kinder climates than our own, body rot is unlikely to be extensive, but do check thoroughly, paying attention to where the wheelarches extend.

2 TWO’S COMPANY

Two-stroke engine power is produced by a combustion within each cylinder for every rotation of the crankshaft, so they tend to generate a lot more heat (and noise) than four-strokes. As such, it’s even more important to ensure that the cooling fan is working correctly. The exhaust system’s health is also important because it’s crucial to maintain proper back pressure.

3 WAITING GAME

If you want a Schnellaster and miss out on the opportunity to buy this one, be prepared for a lengthy search that will almost certainly spread overseas. We suggest you enlist the DKW Owners’ Club (dkw. org.uk) to assist you in your search.

4 PARTS PROBLEMS

It’s highly probably that it would be impossible to complete another Schnellaster to this level, regardless of how much time and money you’re investing. General consumables shouldn’t prove too much of a headache, but finding a missing piece of trim (what little there is) could be a Herculean task. Again, the owners’ club, well connected with its German affiliates, is a good place to begin.