Fearful that unchecked bodywork issues could become too expensive to sort in the future, David stumps up for the necessary repairs now
1972 VOLKSWAGEN TYPE 2 CAMPER
In my report towards the end of last year, I outlined the work that was needed to bring GVF 530L up to spec concerning front-end rust bubbles and corrosion in the cab doors, floor and sills. If left untreated the front would soon be rotten.
Having enjoyed a good season with 25 nights camping in Norfolk over summer, September breaks, and ending at Blue Skies Campsite near Wells-next-the-Sea brought matters to a close.
The camping equipment was removed and cleaned for over-winter storage and the T2 driven to VW Aircooled Works, Lincolnshire, in November so that the prescribed work could be carried out.
Several items required for the work had been ordered up front to beat expected price rises and were ready and waiting at the workshop. Peter Shaw and Josh Moldford lost no time in getting to grips with the problems and I was soon receiving detailed updates and images to show how the workload was progressing.
There is always a worry that past bodges will be revealed once you start digging into problem areas and there were a fair amount of those tucked away that soon came to light. A mess of filler, mastic and rust is never welcome but is sadly an all too common sight.
The main change of plan came as a result of the rear tubs being in worse condition than was hoped and being too far gone to repair. New tubs would need ordering and welding in.
These particular tubs have only recently become available but are perfect copies of the originals and fit a treat. New arches over the wheels were also fitted well with narrower gaps between them and the doors.
