VW campervan advice
 

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[Closed] VW campervan advice

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My dad is thinking of buying this:

http://www.gumtree.com/p/cars-vans-motorbikes/vw-t25-19d-campervan-mot-tax/108797493#gallery-item-full-3

Those with a knowledge of such things, what do you reckon? Initially I thought it seemed quite expensive but other than that I don't know what to look for.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 7:49 am
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Five graaaaaaaand?!


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 7:58 am
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That was my first reaction


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 7:58 am
 IHN
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As a camper, it looks pretty tidy.

As a vehicle, I'd be wary of the fact that the new engine may only have done 20k, but what's the rest of it done?

If you can get a mechanic to give it a good going over and confirm it all looks okay, I'd say go for it.

Obviously, seeing it in the flesh and having a goosd poke about, making sure everything works, take it for a drive, etc etc are a must


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 7:59 am
 IHN
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FWIW, £5k doesn't amaze me, in fact I think that's quite cheap. Campers hold their money.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:00 am
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FWIW, £5k doesn't amaze me, in fact I think that's quite cheap. Campers hold their money.

+1

It looks quite tidy. If there's paperwork to support the list of jobs which have been done, then its definitely worth a punt IMHO


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:03 am
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If that 20,000 miles on a VW 1.9 Diesel is geniune and the condition of the rest of the van reflects the low milage, I reckon 5 grand is a good price.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:14 am
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Bet it's 20k on a rebuilt engine no receipts......


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:17 am
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As above, if it's rust free and in good mechanical condition, why not.

My mate has a stunning Caravelle T3 with 1.9 conversion.

I'm no expert but hideous as those roofs are they must be a good idea, can't be much to go wrong.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:18 am
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If its in good nick thats cheap for a vw .Its a lifestyle thing though owning one of those. Much more modern reliable vans are available and do the interior yourself?


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:26 am
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Looks good but if your father is not experienced in buying such vehicles I'd definatly recomend getting his local classic VW enthusiast to give it a once over - I say that from experience! There is a mechanic in every town that specialises in older VW's that would be more than happy to come along and give it the once over for a fee of usually £30-£50. If that is not an option Volkszone is a good place to check out forums and ask questions about what to look out for. £5.5k is a good price so I would go in sceptical, but then again maybe they just need it gone asap due to the move.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:29 am
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We've been looking recently. Seen them for less but would need work. Seen them touching £12,000 for perfect condition.

As above, looks tidy. If you can have a look before you buy bring someone in the know down. Even if you have to pay them a day rate, it would be money well spent.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:54 am
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If its a converted engine you'll find enough power Peugeot and some Vw td diesels have been fitted. Wv 1.6 d is very sluggish. Not a clue what the 1.9 might go like.
Steering heavy without assist. And they rust unde the cills so a through check underneath is a good idea.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 8:57 am
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Thanks, I'll pass this information on. He is reasonably handy and has restored a Commer campervan in the past, Dad sorted the interior and my uncle the mechanics. It still broke down on a family holiday in the Lakes when I was a nipper though.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 9:16 am
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They're going up in price, non-rusty ones command a premium, decent professional conversions command a premium. £5k seems decent if it's what it appears to be (mileage seems unlikely for a 27-year old van). All caveats above apply, of course 🙂 The most sought-after conversions in good condition are easily in five figures.


 
Posted : 17/08/2012 9:27 am