Checklist

1967 - 1982 VOLKSWAGEN KOMBI

BODY & CHASSIS

Rust attacks floors and peripheral areas such as the wheel arch lips, window surrounds and below the cabin doors. The sliding side door needs to be checked for smooth movement and secure operation of the locking catch. Crash bars bolted to the front chassis rails warrant examination to confirm the mountings are secure and that a previous impact hasn’t bent the rails themselves. Roof damage to Kombis can go un-noticed during pre-purchase inspections, so take a look from a balcony or remember your ladder. Camper conversions raise some specific problems including leaks from the `pop top’ roof panel and gas fittings that may need specialist inspection.

ENGINE & TRANSMISSION

Oil and exhaust system leaks are endemic with older VW motors but can usually wait for the engine to be rebuilt or replaced. Engine swaps to later, larger engines are an easy alternative. Fuel leaks are more serious and any sign or smell of fuel in the engine bay needs careful investigation as fire is a significant killer of older Kombis. Transaxles are extremely durable although the gear-shift is notchy by nature. Difficulty selecting first or reverse gears at a standstill usually indicates clutch wear. Driveshaft joints for 1970s models cost around $100 each.

SUSPENSION & BRAKES

Type 2 steering needs to be sharp with minimal free play at the wheel rim. Excessive slack indicates steering box wear. A VolksBox that rocks and rolls is a candidate for imminent front suspension repairs. Replacement parts are freely available and inexpensive – late 1970s ball joints at around $50 each and shock absorbers from $70. Disc braked models should stop in a straight line without locking the rear wheels. Those that don’t could have a problem with brake proportioning or worn rear shoes.

INTERIOR & ELECTRICAL

Post-1967 Kombis switched from 6 volt to 12 volt electrics but headlight performance can still be appalling. Higher wattage or extra lights need to be installed by a professional. Kombi interiors are relatively inexpensive to renovate but in a bus there are a lot of seats to retrim and panels to replace. Trim panels in the rear area that get damaged by unsecured cargo can be hard to find in good condition and while new sets are available they cost $1400-1800. Fiddly items such as the glovebox liner ($80) and air-vents for around $30 each are still available.