Everyone's Blog Posts - VW Camper Family2024-03-19T12:37:39Zhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profiles/blog/feed?xn_auth=noMaking Eleanor roadworthy...tag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2014-03-05:4450389:BlogPost:664402014-03-05T08:30:00.000ZMichael H Slackhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/MichaelHSlack
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-7" style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;">Hello everyone and welcome to our blog.</span></p>
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<p><span class="font-size-4" style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #333333;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749983?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" height="411" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749983?profile=original" width="581"></img></a></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-7">Hello everyone and welcome to our blog.</span></p>
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<p><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #333333;" class="font-size-4"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749983?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749983?profile=original" width="581" height="411"/></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-7"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;"><br/>Mid March...2012</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4"><br/><span class="font-size-6">Meet Eleanor...Grand patroness of the boulevard!</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">This will be a storyline (of sorts) covering our trials, triumphs and tribulations while making our 66 split window bus 'Eleanor' roadworthy again so my wife and I can chronical our trips and such. My beloved bus has sat on the side of the house for at least the last three years now. I am a very bad owner! So its time to give some lovin to the only mistress my wife will let me have. Eleanor was initially sidelined with a clutch issue but we figured no problem since both our 66 Karmann Ghia and 74 Thing were still running well so we went with these cars for the last three years. Then brake issues with her Ghia the bane of my life started (long story gang) and so the Ghia got sent too the showers. Now we were down to the thing. My wife has been scrounging up rides ever since...</span><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">So I set my sights on Eleanor.<br/> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">Rememebering her clutch issue which was a stretched and then broken cable Im forced to install a new clutch cable OK no problem! So the new cable went in as expected (easily) then it came time to adjust the cable. For the better part of four days I struggled with trying to move the clutch arm while trying to get the cable to go through it...just was NOT going to happen!</span> <span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">So being the way that I am I got out from under Eleanor straightend up turned and looked at her and said "Oh so its going to be like that is it!?" I then went inside grabbed my smokes and a Guinness (Extra Stout) and sat down for a break while I mulled things over.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4"><br/><span class="font-size-5">Well three Guinness's later...my mind was made up. Out comes the engine!</span></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">About 30 min or so later there I was sitting back down in the same spot (yes with another Guinness extra stout) now staring at our engine...goodness what a mess! That voice in my head was telling me that break time was over so I got back too the clutch cable. Now it was no problem to move the clutch arm and get the new cable started with the wing nut. It was then I noticed that the cross shaft that holds the throw out bearing was not centered on the transmission output shaft and that that the throw out bearing was toasted! Well since everything is now readily availible those items got fixed right away new shaft and bearing about $60.00. After dealing with that and upon closer inspection I couldn't ignore that both the engine bay and the motor needed some serious cleaning!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">So the next weekend rolls around and Im outside in the middle of cleaning the crap out of everything right!? So during a break Im walking around things stretching and working out the cramps and such (this is where the constant pain started by the way) that the lil voice in my head was now urging me to check the crankshaft end play since the motor was out of the bus I answered back why not right it made perfect sense to me since the engine was still out. So I grabed the flywheel evenly and solidly and give a hearty push pull...and of course as my reward I get a very loud clunk clunk along with <span style="text-decoration: underline;">plenty of movement</span>!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4"> I actually am ashammed to say that awful things freely passed from my lips as the reaility of a total engine rebuild suddenly became our top priority! Then something really cool happened! A clearly audible volice said "You know how to fix this, here is your chance to make it right you can afford it, and I will help you" and it was at that very moment all worry and apprehension vanished! I only just then realized that I could give Eleanor the proper travel legs (engine) that she would need out here in the brutal New Mexico desert...<br/><br/></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-6">Now I was excited and got to it!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4"><br/>Being someone who was bourne in England I have always had a love for my Welsh, Irish and Scottish cousins over the years. But...it was shortly after the teardown of Eleanors engine that "Murphy's law" suddenly came into play...That danged Irishman!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">Let me explain. I drive/deliver for a restaraunt that offers some killer Gormet food! Only thing is for some reason bussiness has dropped of this year and that means that tips have suffered hard and it was the tips that were going to be used for the rebuild. Now in fairness I aready had around $500,00 saved, but half of that money was to be set aside for the building of my internet talk show...oh well. So I start cleaning and gathering new parts.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">To make a long story shorter tips this year really sucked! So here I am in mid August and nearly done with the rebuild.This past four months I have become plauged with physical issues which has severly slowed down getting my baby back on the road. These constant aches and sharp stabbing deep seated pains are making Eleanor an agonizingly slow rebuild!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #000000;" class="font-size-4">So I finally finished rebuilding our stock dual port near the end of August. I have upgraded everything that I felt would make for an effecient reliable daily driver and endurance/road engine. Since Mlady and I live in Roswell NM if we want to travel we are looking at 2-4 hours minimum just to get anywhere and thats with a normal car lol. So what wasn't replaced with new parts was throughly cleaned and reconditioned to new by me this is probably the part that took the longest as far as time and pain went.</span></p>
<p><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #333333;" class="font-size-4"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750106?profile=original" target="_self"></a></span> </p>
<p><span style="font-family: times new roman, times; color: #333333;" class="font-size-4"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750106?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750106?profile=original" width="306" height="295"/></a></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4"><span class="font-size-5">This (above) is what I was confronted with at the start. Yuck!!!</span> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">Actually it wasn't really all that bad for an engine that truly had real close to (if not) 100,000 miles on it this also is the very same engine that I had rebuilt the top end on 14 years ago at our first apartment building parking lot in Benicia CA over a single weekend when this engine was in my 63 beetle "Oscar" which since 2002 has been powering Eleanor. So once everything was taken apart throughly and properly cleaned all it came down to really was a $25.oo set of piston rings and naturally all new bearings, gaskets and such for around another $75.00 or so. The case was in really sweet shape as were all of the internal parts (thank you Lord!) the heads got new exhaust valves, exhaust guides and the seats reground another $100.00 roughly and spit shined as well!</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-6">Time for some upgrades! ;)</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750172?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750172?profile=original" width="423"/></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <span class="font-size-4">Nice and shiney...not bad for 14 yr old pistons and cylinders</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750341?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750341?profile=original" width="393"/></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <span class="font-size-5">Everything on this engine has been balanced by the way.<br/></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4"><br/>These above pix are in my buddies shop...He insisted that we do this aspect of the build at his place under his supervision! Thank you Jack and God bless you for all of your valuable input! I have rebuilt several motors before in my day but now my knowledge base has just been expanded greatly. My buddy knows we want too be taking camping trips and such and so he advised on this build to make sure everything was just right!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4"><br/><span class="font-size-5">I had three main objectives that I wanted to accomplish with this rebuild:</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">1...Address the engine and engine bay temp issues (Being a desert bus)<br/></span><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">2...Build in strong long term durability and reliability<br/></span><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">3...Last but certainly not least...Effeciency!<br/></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">The upgrades I started with was an EMPI 1.5 quart deep sump coupled with the the EMPI high volume oil pump and spin on filter and the EMPI 'high output' 75 amp alternator was installed in place of the 12 volt generator. Mlady and I want the extra oil for cooling and the extra juice for our electrical system so we can run some well hidden high tech goodies for our roadtrips and such. Everything on this engine was meticulously cleaned, totally reconditioned and then freshly painted with</span> <span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">heat paint. I had the case alignbored (only 20 over!) case savers installed and then had the case halves mated to each other for an absolutley <span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">flat</span> seal when torqued together I also added a temp sending unit as well. My original 200 mm flywheel was seriously gauled so a new flywheel was added with all new clutch parts. I was fortunate to have had on hand a spare German 34 PICT III which was then expertly cleaned and rebuilt by my friend a 45 year (at least) veteran VW mechanic!</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"> <a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752643?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752643?profile=original" width="485"/></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752918?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752918?profile=original" width="640"/></a></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-6">This is the final product...</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;"><span class="font-size-4">Gettin ready to stab it soon (body willing) I spent a lil extra on the polished aluminium oil filler neck mainly so as to be much cleaner when adding oil vs the messy stock configuration. I also willingly confess that I flat out SPLURGED on the EMPI finned polished alumimium rocker covers so there! The muffler tips have since been finished. If you look closely you can see the white oil filter peeking out from underneath the gray breastplate tin, and you can just see the extra deep sump below. Those are the original heater boxes cleaned up and heat painted. All in all I spent around $400.00-500.00 for the whole thing. This project is funded by my tips which I have been saving and still do operate from, and of which have been scarse lately. The remote 96 plate oil cooler will have to wait for now...I still can not bring myself to add those pop rivit side scoops that you sometimes see on busses, regardless of how well folks say they work! There has to be a better way!</span><span class="font-size-4"> </span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">So this is where I am at at present I have some physical issues which have delayed the install. So I am working (puttering really) on other items for right now such as the brake lines and reconditioning all of the pedals and all of their respective cables, linkage, and what not.</span> <span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">Any and all comments (and advice) is warmly welcomed! I look forward to hearing from all of my brother and sister VW enthusists!</span> <span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">Best wishes to one and all in your projects, travels, and endeavors...</span><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;"><span class="font-size-4">Big smiles and happy miles!</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">Mike...Aka Captkilt.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-6">Update: 09-27-2012</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-5">Well I had removed the engine again mainly for two reasons:</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">1...I didn't feel totally right about how it went in to begin with, it was bothering me. It went in really tight and very difficult to get fully seated I had to start the engine nuts by hand and I went round and round by tightening the engine nuts like you would replacing a road wheel.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">2...The clutch was way too tight, and couldn't be adjusted either way. So I am going to double check where the bowden tube joins the chassis to see if this is where the binding occured...(More than likely)</span> <span class="font-size-4">s</span><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">o this is where I am at...hoping to have everything sorted out and running by Monday, as always my body and now weather willing. My joints lately have just been screaming! Most times I can't even pick up a cup of coffee but I will succeed.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-5">As always more too come...Mike</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-6">Sunday evening 9-30-2012<br/><br/></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">After going through the clutch cable tube system from stem to stern today during a break in the weather I found that my bowden tube (as I suspected) is kaput! No biggie Ill order one if my buddy doesn't have it. I have tomorrow off so if the rain lets up I might be able to get something done. I will be upgrading from the stock vacum advance distributor pictured in the above engine photos too the new BOSCH electronic ignition distributor with vacum advance.</span> <span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-5"><span class="font-size-4">I put one of these in our 74 thing and man what a difference!</span></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-5"><span class="font-size-4">Get one if you can you wont be disappointed with this unit.</span> </span><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">I have been feeling better lately and wouldn't ya just know it its been raining for most of this past week figures right? :) Anyway if tomorrows weather plays nice I will be changing the oil cooler seals in our thing, buying parts for Eleanor and doing a valve adjustment on the new engine also.<br/></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-5">Thats the plan...wish me luck!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4"><br/>Well the oil cooler seals are going to have to wait (for now) my buddy had a customer bring his beetle in for some major work so his shop is tied up at present. But!..I did get the new EMPI distributor and several other parts ordered. The valve adjustment is complete and I now am tidying up some odds and ends and such, I will try to re install the motor this weekend my buddy Jack wants to help (I love this guy) as another man of faith he is a real boon when it comes to VW help, knowledge, parts and understanding (as in my current physical situation) all in all I'm thinking that sometime within this next two weeks Eleanor will have her new motor installed, all tuned up properly and ready to drive! In the meantime my body is screaming in pain I don't know whats going on, and I'm waiting for the VA (Veterans Administration) too get back to me...oh joy!</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4"><span class="font-size-6">Stay tuned...sorry no pun intended :)</span></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">Well its november and I fixed the 'binding' that was occuring in the clutch system. What the problem was was a slightly bent bowden tube end...go figure. But I did get a German tube to replace it with! Woo Hoo! Were still not motoring at present though since I operate from tips which have been next to non exsistant of late thereby nearly halting progress. Bummer to be sure but I will get it done. So whats next on the agenda? Well as soon as tips improve (hopefully) its time for some wheel cylinders. I also just finished putting in a German master cylinder, and of course still no brakes that anyone would be comfortable with...hence new wheel cylinders.</span> <span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">Only problem is its november already and Mlady still needs her own ride and bloody well soon! So wish me luck my brother and sister U boat commanders..cause I'm seriously going to need it!</span> <span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">Talk at you good folks later...Mike</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4"><br/>The brakes are done and with plenty of pedal! Given my past track record with installing brake componants (mostly her Ghia, the bane of my life) Im actually very suprised that everything went so well. Dont get me wrong here I have been installing brakes and such on Volksies for many years and have never encountered such headaches as I have with that bloody Karmann Ghia! Which of course is next on my list once Eleanor is fully running. All that is left is to fix the previous owners wiring job and convert the wires over for the new alternator. To this day I do not understand why people feel the need to "molest" the wiring in Volksies. Every and I do mean every VW I have ever had I have had to undue someone else's electrical goofyness! Nature of the beast I suppose, but I am really getting tired of it. Of all of the things that I am capable of doing from an automotive standpoint electrical is by far my weakest link in my chain of</span> <span class="font-size-4"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">abilitie</span><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">s.</span></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;" class="font-size-4">More to come...may you all have a wonderful day! Mike.</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-7"><strong><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">It's alive! It's alive! It's alive!</span></strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-6"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">Finally...</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">Well it started right up...thank you Jesus! The carb is adjusted properly and it just hums right along. But...the binding clutch cable is back to haunt me (AGAIN!) man I just don't understand what is going on here. So tomorrow sunday (the 24th of Nov 2012) I will crawl under my beloved bus and take out the German bowden tube and inspect it. I have a sneaking suspicion that I kinked it somehow. The clutch works as it should, but I can not get the required freeplay in it like it is supposed too have. So since my new meds have been making me feel better (physically) and before it gets too bloody cold I'm going to fix this one way or the other even if it kills me! Everything is correct down/in there so I am at a loss as to why it is so danged tight again! About the only thing I have not looked at or touched is the clutch tube that runs through the chassis...and if this is the case I haven't a clue as to how one would diagnose or even fix this.</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong><span class="font-size-5"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">You brothers and sister's ever get tired of being creative sometimes?</span></span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">Well I came, I saw, and I think I conquered. After literally crawling in and around and over everything (and finding nothing wrong) I consulted my buddy. So I went over to his shop which is actually in his back yard accessable through the alley only. Yes its an outlaw garage (I prefer privateer myself) we settled in over some coffee and started brain thrusting or bending take your pick. My buddy came up with two other possible senerio's</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">Option 1...</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><span style="font-family: times new roman,times;">I could try flipping around the clutch lever that attaches to the underside pedal assembly that the front end of the clutch cable attaches to (pictured below) to see if I could gain some length in the cable (which it didn't) but it was the easiest thing to try so I figured why not?! Oh by the way if your clevis pin is grooved like mine was (see below) replace it before it breaks on you (as always) at the worst possible time!<br/> <a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753390?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753390?profile=original" width="400"/></a></span></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">This little operation was done on Nov 25th and as mentioned above with no success...but! After taking a couple of days off from the bus so as too relieve the stress on both my mind and body I was off to my buddies shop for some more coffee and brain picking. Well an hour later I think my buddy has once again shown why he is the 45-50 year master VW mechanic!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Option 2...</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">When I arrived he related to me how this lack of free play (the afore mentioned constant binding/extreme stiffness) in the clutch pedal system has been causing him some loss of sleep lately especially knowing that I have installed everything correctly. So I walk in and there's that familiar cheshire cat grin greeting me. I look at him and just say "SWEET!" because I know the old master has solved the equation. So what was the problem? It's the 'new' throw out bearing cross shaft that I bought from him to replace the worn out <em>gold tone </em>cross shaft that was in my bus to begin with. But now here's the rub of it please note the below picture.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Before I continue the shaft that came out of my bus is the one on the right with the filed end. This had to be done because come to eventually find out that someone before me goofed up the clutch shift lever when they put it on the shaft that they probably changed now that I think about it.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753654?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753654?profile=original" width="640"/></a></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">The shaft on the left is an <strong><em>original early</em></strong> shaft. The one on the right (gold tone)is all that is availible from aftermarket suppliers...so buyer beware!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">To try and make a long and complcated story short and sweet. When I first replaced the clutch cable I could not for the life of me get the clutch shift lever to pull back so I could run the clutch cable through it. So after many days of trying all of my large screwdrivers and every pry bar that would fit up in there still nothing! This is what led me to pulling the engine. It was while the engine was out that I noticed the throw out bearing was riding right against the output shaft of the transmission. So I shifted everything back in place and moved the clutch lever by hand again and the throwout bearing would shift back over against the output shaft...the cross shaft had a worn out groove and the snap ring that is supposed to hold it in place would come out of its groove allowing the entire shaft to shift over. Time for a new cross shaft right? Well I took out the shaft and went to my buddies place and I got an identical one and put it in. To those of you who do your own work please TAKE NOTE!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">The cross shaft that came out of my bus (unkown to me) was an <em>aftermarket</em> gold tone/colored shaft, and it was replaced with an identical aftermarket shaft. These are the <em>gold tone</em> ones! The problem with them is that the splines on the end where the clutch lever goes (or slides on at) now makes your clutch arm point straight up and down. In other words you will not be able to run the clutch cable through without pulling the engine and more importantly...you WILL LOSE the required pedal freeplay as has happened to me! So what's the solution? My buddy dug into his extensive original parts collection which even he won't show me :( and found me an original EARLY cross shaft.</span> <span class="font-size-4">So when a clutch lever is slid on over the splines the lever now DEFINATELY points more to the front of the vehicle instead of straight up and down! Thereby making up the difference and guess what!?! Now I have the required pedal freeplay! Thank you Lord Jesus! (and) thank you Jack! So please everyone learn from my experience. I do not blame my buddy at all. He got me an exact replacement (even the part number was correct) of what came out of my vehicle.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">So what is the lesson here?</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Start now to try and find the more critical <em>original early parts</em> if you have a splitwindow and stow them away for those emergencies!</span> <span class="font-size-4">I feel that it should also be noted...that my buddy whom I refer to in this blog is in his early 70's</span> <span class="font-size-4">Tomorrow will be the Dec 1st. I will be attempting to finish fixing and installing all clutch related items and then re-stabbing the motor for what should be the last time (for what I hope) will be for a very, very long while!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Oh and I know this is not VW camper related, but nothing is going to happen on Dec 21st at 11am! I'm calling it now as a non event!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Remember ya heard it here! Talk at you good folks later...Mike</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <span class="font-size-7">Bam! baby!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-5">Thats right! Everything works like it should and with the correct freeplay.</span> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Wow in all of my years of tinkerin and wrenching on volksies I have never had such headaches as I have with this current project! Before I continue I have another warning to give to all of my brother and sister U Boat commanders.<br/><br/> <span class="font-size-6"><strong>Beware of Empi parts! They are absolute crap!!!</strong></span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><br/><span class="font-size-4">For this bus project I wound up buying a boat load of EMPI parts. My current success rate is somewhere in the neighborhood of 60% at best. Why one may ask? Because they are all made in China! Now I knew this going in and I bought them for two reasons. 1...They were (for me at the time) affordable. 2...my esteemed and afore mentioned friend is our regional/local EMPI distributor and Iv'e been doing bussiness with him for quite a while now. But ever since this bus project started it has been just one problem after an other. If a part didn't fail outright then it needed to be altered to either make it fit to work or both!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><br/>I know the German parts are nearly through the roof as to there cost, but if you can get them DO IT! you will not regret it. If I may suggest the Brazilian brake parts ie: Vargas wheel cylinders are superb! I have yet to have one fail. Sure sure I know parts eventually wear out and stop working thats a given. But I have gotten years worth of stellar service from the Vargas brake parts. Just a heads up for you brothers and sisters. As to aftermarket goodies? Go with Scat they have never failed me in the past and I only went with EMPI because as stated above for price and conveinence...never again unless I have too! To say I am ticked right about now is a huge understatement! Because the throwout bearing cross shaft that has given me so much trouble and agony these past months was an EMPI part! Even their clamps failed right away, and now there raising there prices! Screw them and a pox upon them as well!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Im sorry about the ranting gang but aside from my physical issues which were (I do believe) greatly compounded by having to redo several jobs/tasks multiple times till I got a part that worked right has really taken its toll on me then there is the time lost and money spent as well. Not to mention that bloody cross shaft meant two un neccesary engine pulls! I truly hope you good folks never have to go through what I have been going through these past months because of crap parts and shitty quality control! Please forgive my language I can't stress enough to you just how terrible EMPI has gotten.</span> <span class="font-size-4">They used to be the stuff back in the day.</span> <span class="font-size-4">Not any more because EMPI truly sucks!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">In case your wondering about Bug Pack...they have always been kinda crummy. They don't even get considered as far as Im concerned, and now EMPI can join them! Yes I know but Mike you say Eleanor is now running again and with a new engine...yeah well no thanks to EMPI I can tell you that!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><br/>Next are some road tests...think happy thoughts cause Im running some EMPI engine parts. Well its getting really late and I need to pray so anon dear gentles.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Big smiles and happy miles to one and all...Mike </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753716?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753716?profile=original" width="640"/></a></p>
<p style="text-align: left;"></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-5">Road test complete! Everything runs sounds and works just fine!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-5">Aint she pretty?</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">I would have liked to have done a longer duration road test, but Eleanor isn't registered or insured just yet. The police out here can be brutal if they notice expired tags and then to not have up to date insurance! Can anyone say impound? The brown splotches on the bumpers is a rust prevention/stopper that can be sanded and repainted at a later date.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><br/><span class="font-size-7">Update March 5th 2014</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Well Im back with another maintenance job...oh joy!<br/>This time I noticed on Feb 28th (2014) that both rear axles were leaking.<br/>So of course...I pull Eleanor behind the fence and get her ready, My shop is now nearly complete. Just a few more items and Im ready to go full bore on any maintenance issue that I may encounter. So I get the bus up on stands pull the drums and egad what a mess! Ok no big thing, heres where it pays to have parts on hand. So I start with the right rear, everything is taken apart and I am now looking at the inner bearing spacer...which doesn't quite look right for some reason. So I take a picture and send it to my good brother Jack.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><br/>About 10 minutes later he's calling me back saying he'll be right over. Ok now at this point I'm thinking "Great! Must be bad if he's comming over" So I get to fixing us some fresh joe, and shortly thereafter my bro pulls in. So we get to too the task at hand after coffee and he looks at the inner bearing spacer and says "ok false alarm" naturally I'm like "what do you mean false alarm" so he explains that judging from the pictures I sent he thought the inner bearing spacers were in backwards. Thank goodness they weren't! The only snag to this whole deal is his puller is out on loan to his son who lives in Alamogordo! So now I have to come up with a solution. Enter John Muirs book!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Being a metalworker (of sorts) I also produce 16th Century plate armour in the Elizabethan fashion. I built a simple puller from scrap metal that I had laying around patterned after an illustration in the 'idiot book'. Well it worked, maybe not as easily as I had hoped...but worked all the same.</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978756665?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978756665?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="393" height="460"/></a><span class="font-size-7">Before...</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978756739?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978756739?profile=original" width="384"/></a> </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-7"> After...</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">As you can see I'm quite anal about better than new. I know nodody will see all of this cleaning and such but it gives me a tremendous sense of "Peace of mind" as well as Mlady. You see I subscribe to the General George S Patton school of thought when it comes to automotive repairs. Which is a statement he once made stateing that he hated to pay for real estate twice! I for one couldn't agree more!</span><span class="font-size-4"> So I totally cleaned everything and installed all new parts! My train of thought is simply thus...now I shouldn't have to go back in there for another 4-5 years or so, and only to replace the shoes. As a side thought, may I suggest once a month taking an air hose and from the backside of the drum blowing out all the dust and brake crud that will build up. The idea is that when you have to go inside and do maintenance you won't have such a mess to clean up and possibly breath in. Brake dust being what it is I use those cheapy medical masks that you can get from places like walmart and such...food for thought.<br/><br/><br/></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-7">Safety first right!?</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">This year 2014 Mlady and I do plan on taking some weekend excursions...finally!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Money for us, is as Im sure the case with most everyone else these days is becoming more scarce by the week. But there are things we want to see and do starting with where we live 'New Mexico' which isn't called the land of enchantment for nothing ya know!? We being somewhat paranormal investigators ourselves want to visit haunted houses, ghost towns and such. Research chupacabra claims...you get the idea. As New Mexico is chock full of weirdness! Truly! Well that's it for now everyone. Blessings and...a</span><span class="font-size-4">s always!</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><span class="font-size-6">'Big smiles and happy miles' to each of you as well!</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4">Mike. </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"> </p>Cikan Vuztag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2014-02-20:4450389:BlogPost:831972014-02-20T17:30:00.000ZCikan Vuzhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/Cikan_Vuz
<p>Well, I already have a blog on weebly with her, so I wont bore ya all twice Feel free to visit and comment if you wish! ;) <a href="http://cikanvuz.weebly.com/blog.html" target="_blank">Cikan Vuz </a></p>
<p>Well, I already have a blog on weebly with her, so I wont bore ya all twice Feel free to visit and comment if you wish! ;) <a href="http://cikanvuz.weebly.com/blog.html" target="_blank">Cikan Vuz </a></p>Out With The Old... Sadly!tag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2014-01-04:4450389:BlogPost:824472014-01-04T23:21:59.000ZStephen Robbinshttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/StephenRobbins
Check out our latest post on <a href="http://www.rweethereyet.com">www.rweethereyet.com</a><br />
In Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo Mexico, getting fresh paint on Pumper. After 4 years driving on 4 continents and at times some pretty sketchy roads, time to pamper to get rid of the road scars and paint chips.<br />
Your repair and repaint money goes a long way in Mexico!<br />
Follow the process also on fb Living The Dream.<br />
Peace and love amigos!
Check out our latest post on <a href="http://www.rweethereyet.com">www.rweethereyet.com</a><br />
In Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo Mexico, getting fresh paint on Pumper. After 4 years driving on 4 continents and at times some pretty sketchy roads, time to pamper to get rid of the road scars and paint chips.<br />
Your repair and repaint money goes a long way in Mexico!<br />
Follow the process also on fb Living The Dream.<br />
Peace and love amigos!69 VW Adventurewagontag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-12-03:4450389:BlogPost:819132013-12-03T00:01:46.000ZReginahttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/Regina
<p>Runs well, stove, refrigerator, back seat turns into bed, cabinets, luggage rack, and sink (missing pump faucet). If interested . . . email <a href="mailto:regwallace@gmail.com">regwallace@gmail.com</a></p>
<p>Runs well, stove, refrigerator, back seat turns into bed, cabinets, luggage rack, and sink (missing pump faucet). If interested . . . email <a href="mailto:regwallace@gmail.com">regwallace@gmail.com</a></p>Finnon Lake, Placervilletag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-10-18:4450389:BlogPost:807872013-10-18T18:00:00.000ZLarry Rusthttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/LarryRust
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750644?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750644?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a> <a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752911?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978756208?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a> <a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978758484?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978760956?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750644?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750644?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752911?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978756208?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978758484?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978760956?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-center"/></a></p>insidetag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-09-29:4450389:BlogPost:803942013-09-29T06:37:23.000Zbin shermanhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/binsherman
<p>hi would anyone know were I could get detailed pictures on how to put my camper front inside back together as im not quite sure many thanks binster x</p>
<p>hi would anyone know were I could get detailed pictures on how to put my camper front inside back together as im not quite sure many thanks binster x</p>SF Gate article about Microbus going awaytag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-09-12:4450389:BlogPost:801202013-09-12T05:42:47.000ZLaura Mayhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/LauraMay
<p><a href="http://blog.sfgate.com/topdown/2013/09/11/the-vw-van-goes-to-the-great-junkyard-in-the-sky-thats-it-for-the-microbus-after-64-years-of-wheezing-up-hills/#15836-1">http://blog.sfgate.com/topdown/2013/09/11/the-vw-van-goes-to-the-great-junkyard-in-the-sky-thats-it-for-the-microbus-after-64-years-of-wheezing-up-hills/#15836-1</a></p>
<p><a href="http://blog.sfgate.com/topdown/2013/09/11/the-vw-van-goes-to-the-great-junkyard-in-the-sky-thats-it-for-the-microbus-after-64-years-of-wheezing-up-hills/#15836-1">http://blog.sfgate.com/topdown/2013/09/11/the-vw-van-goes-to-the-great-junkyard-in-the-sky-thats-it-for-the-microbus-after-64-years-of-wheezing-up-hills/#15836-1</a></p>Latest adittions to my T4 syncrotag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-07-30:4450389:BlogPost:784882013-07-30T16:08:34.000ZYngve Spjelkavikhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/YngveSpjelkavik
<p> Yesterday I put on a gangstercap over my windshield. Felt I needed do something as there is a void between the sun visors and the rear view mirror that fits a low arctic sun anyday it wants to and my eyes don't like close encounters with that much light :-)</p>
<p></p>
<p>So now I lack is eight steel (stainless, mind you) screws to secure it to each A-bar on each side of the wind shield - I shall have this mod on my rig.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Did my annual trip to Nijmegen, NL, and returned Monday…</p>
<p> Yesterday I put on a gangstercap over my windshield. Felt I needed do something as there is a void between the sun visors and the rear view mirror that fits a low arctic sun anyday it wants to and my eyes don't like close encounters with that much light :-)</p>
<p></p>
<p>So now I lack is eight steel (stainless, mind you) screws to secure it to each A-bar on each side of the wind shield - I shall have this mod on my rig.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Did my annual trip to Nijmegen, NL, and returned Monday last week. I knew from before fuel consumption varies a bit on the German Autobahn (7 was the one I did) but to Nijmegen I cruised along at 110km/h ending with about a third of fuel to spare in the fuel tank.</p>
<p>Upon return I cruised at around 140km/h and ended with a quarter of fuel tank left, so I recogn I shall do the slowest driving next time - the travel time was not so much different due to a German invention called "stau". It means jam...</p>
<p></p>
<p>Distance from Kiel to Nijmegen was 512km and that was the driving I can do this years, well add a trip from Oslo to Gothenburg and back in June and that's a wrap. </p>
<p></p>
<p>-Next year, how ever, is a completely different saga !</p>The Adventures of Linus and Snoopytag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-06-20:4450389:BlogPost:770722013-06-20T02:00:00.000ZMichael J.https://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/MichaelFriedhoff
<p><font>Wednesday… It's a humper…</font></p>
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<div><p>Well, we have had some actual reader comments associated with our blog. Lisa K winning the first Secret Word contest and last night it was our buddy Jeff who reaped the benefits of reading the blog and cashing in on the blog incentive to read. I wonder who will be the next individual to cash in on the freebies we are offering? Only one winner per week, but keep providing us comments besides just telling us the secret…</p>
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<p><font>Wednesday… It's a humper…</font></p>
<div><p></p>
</div>
<div><p>Well, we have had some actual reader comments associated with our blog. Lisa K winning the first Secret Word contest and last night it was our buddy Jeff who reaped the benefits of reading the blog and cashing in on the blog incentive to read. I wonder who will be the next individual to cash in on the freebies we are offering? Only one winner per week, but keep providing us comments besides just telling us the secret word. We need feedback to help us refine our writing and subject matter to better suit you guys and your lifestyle.</p>
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<div><p>FYI - I try to listen to the Brian & Jill Show, which is a podcast that is broadcast out of Burbank here in So Cal usually on a daily basis. I started listening kinda late since I was a Noob to the podcast thing and so I have had a backlog of them to listen to. I'm trying to get the backlog of them listened to, so maybe I can listen to a couple of them each day. I had enjoyed listening to Mark & Brian for many, many years, but since they decided to quit last August and do different things, I kinda missed their silliness and humor. Mark is now doing a podcast with his wife Lynda from their South Carolina home and it is relationship based, which I have no impending use for. Brian teamed up with his long time friend Jill Whelan, formally from the TV show, The Love Boat, back when she was just a teenager. Secret word = Humpin'. I did not really watch that show because I was probably working during those hours or I was out partying someplace. Or maybe I just had god taste in TV shows. Anyway, I enjoy their banter on their podcast and the way they interact together. I also like the fact of the podcast which allows you to listen to it whenever you want. It is much more convenient then having to get up at 6 AM to just to listen to an audio broadcast. </p>
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<div><p>I am now dealing with Kaiser Permanente, my HMO health provider trying to get in touch with my doctors who have since left Kaiser and are out there working someplace on their own. Kaiser has been absolutely worthless helping with this injury claim. They won't even provide a mailing address for these doctors, so I will have to track them down personally online I guess. I also found out that Kaiser does not have services available in the Midwest, notably in Illinois, where I may end up living primarily. That decision is still yet to be made, probably will be made during our 2015 US Backroads Tour. </p>
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<div><p>This upcoming tour is the main reason for this blog, to actually be able to keep in touch with my family and peeps. Linus, Snoopy and I are all looking forward to this trip, which has been a dream for us since way back. We are still looking for some suggestions for where to visit and what to put on our agenda. We really could use your help with this part of our trip planning. We know many of you have been all over this country visiting outrageous places and sightseeing all those wonderful views out there. From Yosemite National Park in the West to the autumn colors of New England in the East, we are expecting great views all along the way. Know of some roadside attraction that you could not forget? How about some mom & pop diner along the old original Route 66 that has been long passed by the new interstate highway? How was the view from the Great Smoky Mountains, or from the nearby Appalachian Trail? How was your childhood visit to Yellowstone National Park, the first official National Park designated by President Teddy Roosevelt? Got a great story about the time you got wasted down in Margaritaville or the Florida Keys? These are the stories we are looking for. Won't you please give us some feedback in our blog comments section or recommend some awesome place we are not yet aware of? Let us hear ya, okay?</p>
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<div><p>Good grief, Game 4 of the Stanley Cup Finals has already started, and the Hawks have scored the first goal! I should close this puppy out for the day.</p>
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<div><p>Until next time, Be Good!</p>
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<div><ul class="Apple-dash-list">
<li>CB</li>
</ul>
</div>http://zenbus.blogspot.com/2013/06/some-day-son-all-this-will-be-yours.htmltag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-06-03:4450389:BlogPost:767142013-06-03T15:36:01.000Zzen bushttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/zenbus
<p><a href="http://zenbus.blogspot.com/2013/06/some-day-son-all-this-will-be-yours.html" target="_blank">http://zenbus.blogspot.com/2013/06/some-day-son-all-this-will-be-yours.html</a></p>
<p><a href="http://zenbus.blogspot.com/2013/06/some-day-son-all-this-will-be-yours.html" target="_blank">http://zenbus.blogspot.com/2013/06/some-day-son-all-this-will-be-yours.html</a></p>Bus City First Timertag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-05-22:4450389:BlogPost:763102013-05-22T18:32:57.000ZWestphaliahttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/ArnoldWestphal
<p>Thanks to the organizers for this years Bus City.</p>
<p>We took Serena up for the event which was out first VW Event.</p>
<p>Had a great time and met some very cool people.</p>
<p>Definitely looking forward to future events.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Arnold~…<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749472?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749472?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p>Thanks to the organizers for this years Bus City.</p>
<p>We took Serena up for the event which was out first VW Event.</p>
<p>Had a great time and met some very cool people.</p>
<p>Definitely looking forward to future events.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Arnold~<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749472?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749472?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>Sabine Pass, Texastag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-05-18:4450389:BlogPost:758812013-05-18T04:41:17.000ZDoyle Dikeshttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/DoyleDikes
<p>Camped at the Sea Rim State Park located in the South-East Corner of Texas near Port Arthur. Port Arthur is the site of a loat of refinery work. Sabine Pass has a history of being a valuable military asset since it is possible for boats to proceed up this river delta. It was the site of a Civil War battle that the Confederacy won. Near the memorial site are several large machines, perhaps they are drilling rigs under construction.</p>
<p>I stopped for barbecue at Vinces in Port Arthur…</p>
<p>Camped at the Sea Rim State Park located in the South-East Corner of Texas near Port Arthur. Port Arthur is the site of a loat of refinery work. Sabine Pass has a history of being a valuable military asset since it is possible for boats to proceed up this river delta. It was the site of a Civil War battle that the Confederacy won. Near the memorial site are several large machines, perhaps they are drilling rigs under construction.</p>
<p>I stopped for barbecue at Vinces in Port Arthur and encountered an Asian family run establishment that could barely speak English. I purchased two pounds of barbecued crawfish.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Sabine Pass War Memorial with large machines in the background.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749247?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978749247?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> The nature walk at Sea Rim SP passes over a shallow lake clogged with vegatation that enables lots of mosquitotes to hatch.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978751393?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978751393?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a> </p>
<p>Sunrise at Sea Rim State Park. Water only hookups, considered primitative camping.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753501?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753501?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a> </p>Grand Isle, Lousianatag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-05-18:4450389:BlogPost:759562013-05-18T04:17:29.000ZDoyle Dikeshttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/DoyleDikes
<p>After completing my visit in Alabama, I decided to head to Grand Isle State Park located on the southernmost road in Lousiana. Grand Isle has a storied history, today it is mostly vacation homes called "camps" built on pillars to allow the flooding to pass undernearth. Not as I imagined; no tall cypress trees with hanging moss. The frequent hurricanes keep it trimed pretty flat. The nearby Inter Coastal Waterway is the site of a lot of tug boat activity and they work all night. It was…</p>
<p>After completing my visit in Alabama, I decided to head to Grand Isle State Park located on the southernmost road in Lousiana. Grand Isle has a storied history, today it is mostly vacation homes called "camps" built on pillars to allow the flooding to pass undernearth. Not as I imagined; no tall cypress trees with hanging moss. The frequent hurricanes keep it trimed pretty flat. The nearby Inter Coastal Waterway is the site of a lot of tug boat activity and they work all night. It was not a quiet place, the constant reving up of diesal engines, the banging of cranes loading/unloading. Sounded like a construction zone. The locals are immune to the sounds, afterall its just the sound of money.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Lake Choctaw, Mississippi tag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-05-17:4450389:BlogPost:761372013-05-17T22:30:00.000ZDoyle Dikeshttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/DoyleDikes
<p>I planned to camp at the Jeff Busby site on the Natchez Trace but it seemed a little too barren and uninviting so I continued on and came across the Lake Choctaw federal campsite, not on the Rand McNally map, in the TOMIBGEE National Forest. More tall trees, a local secret perhaps. The camp ground host indicated that he had a nice bunch of regulars that took good care of the place.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The campsite ...…</p>
<p></p>
<p></p>
<p>I planned to camp at the Jeff Busby site on the Natchez Trace but it seemed a little too barren and uninviting so I continued on and came across the Lake Choctaw federal campsite, not on the Rand McNally map, in the TOMIBGEE National Forest. More tall trees, a local secret perhaps. The camp ground host indicated that he had a nice bunch of regulars that took good care of the place.</p>
<p> </p>
<p>The campsite ...</p>
<p></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750282?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750282?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>The lake ...</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752143?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752143?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>The college ...</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753400?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978753400?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>Texarkana, Texastag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-05-17:4450389:BlogPost:758762013-05-17T22:00:00.000ZDoyle Dikeshttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/DoyleDikes
<p>After spending a night with relatives near Lawton Oklahoma, I proceeded to drive east on US-85. I wanted to avoid the Inter State Highways as much as possible. I stopped for the night to camp at Atalanta State Park near the North-East corner of Texas among some very tall trees. The large lake nearby was formerly called Lake Texarkana, now known as the Pat Wightman Lake. It was renamed to honor a long time East Texas congressman.…</p>
<p>After spending a night with relatives near Lawton Oklahoma, I proceeded to drive east on US-85. I wanted to avoid the Inter State Highways as much as possible. I stopped for the night to camp at Atalanta State Park near the North-East corner of Texas among some very tall trees. The large lake nearby was formerly called Lake Texarkana, now known as the Pat Wightman Lake. It was renamed to honor a long time East Texas congressman.<a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750263?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750263?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>Road Trip May, 2013, Day 1.tag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-05-17:4450389:BlogPost:758712013-05-17T20:30:00.000ZDoyle Dikeshttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/DoyleDikes
<p>I celebrated my 71st B'Day by embarking from Colorado Springs, Colorado on a road trip that covered much of Texas. My furthest east destination was in Alabama. </p>
<p>Capulin Volcano east of Raton, New Mexico.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750161?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750161?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"></img></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>US 64-87 leading straight ahead.…</p>
<p></p>
<p>I celebrated my 71st B'Day by embarking from Colorado Springs, Colorado on a road trip that covered much of Texas. My furthest east destination was in Alabama. </p>
<p>Capulin Volcano east of Raton, New Mexico.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750161?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750161?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>US 64-87 leading straight ahead.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752010?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978752010?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<p>The Thompson Memorial Park on the North edge of Amarillo is a great lunch and rest stop.</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978754347?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978754347?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978758364?profile=original" target="_self"></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p>My first overnight stop was at Palo Duro State Park near Amarillo.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978760853?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978760853?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Vanagon bluestag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-05-13:4450389:BlogPost:759382013-05-13T02:11:27.000Zsaid abdallahhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/saidabdallah
<p>Hi all,<br></br>Head gasket on my Vanagon GL started leaking last night on my way to main, I'm stuck in a motel in Homosassa Fl(not sure about the spelling) <br></br>I'm about to get it towed to tallahassee or atlanta to have someone knowledgeable work replace the HG this is the second gasket in three weeks the shop that worked on it in holiday florida was supposed to be good, but well.<br></br>If anyone knows about any good shops further north I'll appreciate a text or an…</p>
<p>Hi all,<br/>Head gasket on my Vanagon GL started leaking last night on my way to main, I'm stuck in a motel in Homosassa Fl(not sure about the spelling) <br/>I'm about to get it towed to tallahassee or atlanta to have someone knowledgeable work replace the HG this is the second gasket in three weeks the shop that worked on it in holiday florida was supposed to be good, but well.<br/>If anyone knows about any good shops further north I'll appreciate a text or an email.<br/>4evermonk@gmail.com<br/>949-293-4755<br/>Thank you all.</p>Teasx VW Classictag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-04-01:4450389:BlogPost:750072013-04-01T21:55:22.000ZDonna and Jay Deanhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/DonnaandJayDean
<p>Registered for vending @ show, trying to contact Steve</p>
<p>Keep getting error on page, What"s Up?</p>
<p>Have a few questions for Steve,about camping overnight w/ Bus @ our vending spot, is that allowed?</p>
<p>Peace, Love and VW's</p>
<p>Registered for vending @ show, trying to contact Steve</p>
<p>Keep getting error on page, What"s Up?</p>
<p>Have a few questions for Steve,about camping overnight w/ Bus @ our vending spot, is that allowed?</p>
<p>Peace, Love and VW's</p>Teasx VW Classictag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-04-01:4450389:BlogPost:746922013-04-01T21:55:20.000ZDonna and Jay Deanhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/DonnaandJayDean
<p>Registered for vending @ show, trying to contact Steve</p>
<p>Keep getting error on page, What"s Up?</p>
<p>Have a few questions for Steve,about camping overnight w/ Bus @ our vending spot, is that allowed?</p>
<p>Peace, Love and VW's</p>
<p>Registered for vending @ show, trying to contact Steve</p>
<p>Keep getting error on page, What"s Up?</p>
<p>Have a few questions for Steve,about camping overnight w/ Bus @ our vending spot, is that allowed?</p>
<p>Peace, Love and VW's</p>Summer's bra and a solar paneltag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-03-27:4450389:BlogPost:746672013-03-27T13:40:56.000ZYngve Spjelkavikhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/YngveSpjelkavik
<p>Pickewd up the campers bra today, got it last fall but did not get it to fit properly.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Fear it is for a VW T4a and not like mine, a T4b. Will have a good look now, spring weather gives plenty of light and sufficient temp to work outdoors again.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Also I shall hook up a 15W solar panel for the leisure battery - the battery is a goner, but at least I can learn how it workd out once installed.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Pictures will follow these two ball points on my "To…</p>
<p>Pickewd up the campers bra today, got it last fall but did not get it to fit properly.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Fear it is for a VW T4a and not like mine, a T4b. Will have a good look now, spring weather gives plenty of light and sufficient temp to work outdoors again.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Also I shall hook up a 15W solar panel for the leisure battery - the battery is a goner, but at least I can learn how it workd out once installed.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Pictures will follow these two ball points on my "To do"-list.</p>Oslo Springtag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-03-26:4450389:BlogPost:748492013-03-26T10:49:22.000ZYngve Spjelkavikhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/YngveSpjelkavik
<p>Made a decision today.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Gonna get my summer tyres tomorrow, a nice set of 5 BF/G All Terrains in 215/75R15 that are screaming to be picked up where I have them stored.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Drive non-studded Mud n'Snow winter tyres and I get so tired just watching them everytime I get in or out of the camper - BF/G's look a whole lot better.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Also I shall get my solar panel and hook it up to the leisure battery one of these days - pic's will come.</p>
<p>Made a decision today.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Gonna get my summer tyres tomorrow, a nice set of 5 BF/G All Terrains in 215/75R15 that are screaming to be picked up where I have them stored.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Drive non-studded Mud n'Snow winter tyres and I get so tired just watching them everytime I get in or out of the camper - BF/G's look a whole lot better.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Also I shall get my solar panel and hook it up to the leisure battery one of these days - pic's will come.</p>Bad apple in Camper Familytag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-03-25:4450389:BlogPost:748402013-03-25T20:11:11.000ZHoward Kirschhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/HowardKirsch
<p>I'm writing this blog to hopefully prevent someone from making a mistake like I did. I'm in the market to purchase a Westy, and I saw an ad on eBay advertising a 1986 mode, in pretty good condition. The ad was placed by one of the member's of the VW Camper Family, Jordan Herrmann. Mr Herrmann runs an unlicensed business in El Cerrito CA., where he buys, refurbishes, and resells VW Camper's. I visited his business, and saw a vehicle I was interested in. He was still in the process of…</p>
<p>I'm writing this blog to hopefully prevent someone from making a mistake like I did. I'm in the market to purchase a Westy, and I saw an ad on eBay advertising a 1986 mode, in pretty good condition. The ad was placed by one of the member's of the VW Camper Family, Jordan Herrmann. Mr Herrmann runs an unlicensed business in El Cerrito CA., where he buys, refurbishes, and resells VW Camper's. I visited his business, and saw a vehicle I was interested in. He was still in the process of refurbishing the van, but was asking $18,000. He represented that the van would be free of mechanical problems before he sold it. I told him I'd need to have it inspected by my mechanic, and he asked for a "good faith" deposit. I gave him a check for $500 towards the purchase of the vehicle, pending the outcome of the inspection. The inspection cost me $200, and pointed out a number of repairs that were needed that totaled more than $1500. When I contacted Mr. Herrmann to discuss the inspection report, he confronted me with a take it or leave it offer for the vehicle "as is" for $18,000. I said no thanks, and he hung up the phone. I tried calling him back to discuss his returning my deposit, but he ignored my calls. He eventually sent me a text saying he wasn't going to return the deposit, claiming it was part of a contract, and that if I set foot on his property I'd be trespassing. I'm in the process of taking legal action against Mr Herrmann to try to recover my deposit. I just wanted to warn anyone that was potentially thinking of doing business with him, to be aware of his character and the way he does business. He is not an honest man.</p>Hi All. I posted an introduction Hello in the forum...tag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-03-19:4450389:BlogPost:742842013-03-19T17:41:40.000ZTré Taylorhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/TreTaylor
<p>Here it is: <a href="http://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/forum/topics/introductions" target="_blank">http://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/forum/topics/introductions</a></p>
<p>I'm looking forward to meeting yall' this year and sharing my VW Restoration Project with you... I'll take a bunch of photos of the process and post them here...</p>
<p></p>
<p>I just wanted to introduce myself and say HELLO!</p>
<p>Yours Truly,</p>
<p>Tré Taylor…</p>
<p></p>
<p>Here it is: <a href="http://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/forum/topics/introductions" target="_blank">http://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/forum/topics/introductions</a></p>
<p>I'm looking forward to meeting yall' this year and sharing my VW Restoration Project with you... I'll take a bunch of photos of the process and post them here...</p>
<p></p>
<p>I just wanted to introduce myself and say HELLO!</p>
<p>Yours Truly,</p>
<p>Tré Taylor</p>
<p><a href="http://www.reallyweirdstuff.com">www.reallyweirdstuff.com</a></p>Dharma Van sold - Hello Blue Boy !tag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-03-11:4450389:BlogPost:736212013-03-11T18:12:38.000ZDharma Vanhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/Erwinestigarribia
<p>I don't know what came over me but we decided to sell our <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_U4JDHH_20&feature=share&list=UUFfwhFd_weqIpuyib08UJIA" target="_blank">Dharma</a>Van - We listed it on Ebay and it went very quickly. It did have some nice modification such as solar power, LED lighting and Diesel Heater with thermostat. The winning bid came from Germany so I was immediately concerned but the funds showed up 24 hrs in our back account and the buyer was very engaged and…</p>
<p>I don't know what came over me but we decided to sell our <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_U4JDHH_20&feature=share&list=UUFfwhFd_weqIpuyib08UJIA" target="_blank">Dharma</a>Van - We listed it on Ebay and it went very quickly. It did have some nice modification such as solar power, LED lighting and Diesel Heater with thermostat. The winning bid came from Germany so I was immediately concerned but the funds showed up 24 hrs in our back account and the buyer was very engaged and the whole thing went smooth.</p>
<p></p>
<p>Right as the Dharma Van was put on a truck for shipping, we felt an unbelievable sense of remorse! Once our friends found out that "Bread" (because it looked like a loaf of bread) was gone, they were all very sad. We had many trips to the beach on Bread with the dogs and all. See <a href="http://youtu.be/Eci4svudzdA" target="_blank">vid</a></p>
<p>Fast forward 6 months and I had sold my vintage Norton motorcycle after 1.5 years of great ownership but too many hours tinkering and not enough hours riding. The funds from this sale were either going to go to a classic mini project or a second austin sprite project. As I usually troll craigslist with my usual searches, I came across an add for a blue "Riviera, like Westfalia-needs to go add". After 1.5 hrs of research on what a Riviera is and the price, I was excited. I left work early and took a look at this van and immediately made an offer. The owner was not driving it much and only used it for rock climbing trips which were becoming infrequent.</p>
<p>Van specs: 1977, Riviera - full couch/bed - not 3/4 length like the Westi - 1.7 liter FI with smog certificate on hand.</p>
<p></p>
<p>First thing, put bamboo floors !</p>
<p></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750512?profile=original"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750512?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a>- All done in one afternoon</p>
<p></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750476?profile=original"><img class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750476?profile=original" width="716"/></a>The I was lucky to find a kitchen set which fits right in, sing, 12 colt/110 volt fridge which works great, storage and a brand new 2 burner stainless steel stove ! straight from CL.</p>
<p></p>
<p><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978751102?profile=original"><img width="750" class="align-full" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978751102?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750"/></a>I have since added a diesel heater which sits under the tall cabinet door (not pictured) on a thermostat which is a super nice thing to do. Gas cylinder and auxiliary battery with charger on a 300 W panel up top. The harder thing so far is figuring out how to assist the lifting of the roof (springs are worn out and no clear replacement plus a solar panel weight to consider). I found an Australian company that makes airbag type lifters which require very little space (linear actuators require quiet a bit of space for installation) These are going on this week.</p>
<p></p>
<p>We haven't done a trip but this weekend might be a test run in the Blue Boy in Livermore !</p>
<p></p>
<p>Cheers,</p>A new life with a VW Vantag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-02-19:4450389:BlogPost:729432013-02-19T15:07:44.000ZTracy Oliverhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/TracyOliver
<p>I found my dream van for sale on thesamba.com. It was an automatic 87 Weekender. Very nice for an excellent price and not far from where I live. Turned out my step dad even did some work on it and knew him. So I decided to sell my car to get it. The owner wanted me to have it but someone was coming in from Pittsburg. Turned out when I was in the process of selling my car the guy was driving my dream van back to Pittsburg. Well, my step father had an 87 Westy at his VW shop but it wasnt…</p>
<p>I found my dream van for sale on thesamba.com. It was an automatic 87 Weekender. Very nice for an excellent price and not far from where I live. Turned out my step dad even did some work on it and knew him. So I decided to sell my car to get it. The owner wanted me to have it but someone was coming in from Pittsburg. Turned out when I was in the process of selling my car the guy was driving my dream van back to Pittsburg. Well, my step father had an 87 Westy at his VW shop but it wasnt an automatic and the engine needed rebuilt. I liked the color and but didnt really want a camper or a manual transmission. But, I bought it anyway and now my step dad is rebuilding the engine with all new parts. So now I guess you can say I'm a lady in waiting. I sold my car and waiting on my van. I'm actually getting excited about going camping. As a kid we would go camping every summer. It was the best childhood memories I have. It's kind of bitter sweet. I just lost my daughter on January 6th. We had her funeral on her 21st birthday. I wanted to have a van before but my daughter was disabled and not able to get in a car high up. Marissa had down syndrome and diabetes etc. She was a huge part in my life. I was 18 when I got pregnant with her. I was 20 when I got pregnant with my son. I raised them without their father. Now she is gone and I have a van. I've been using it as an escape goat. Thinking about camping and traveling. About fixing it up. Maybe driving it to a couple of different art schools I'm trying to get a scholarship for. Just 2 week classes but would be a creative way to deal with my grief. Both places in Gatlinburg, Tn and in North Carolina have camp sites. So I could camp out there. </p>
<p>So, I guess this is me. Trying to find my way in this new life with a VW Van without my best friend :)</p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750189?profile=original" target="_self"><img src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978750189?profile=original" width="604" class="align-full"/></a></p>
<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978751279?profile=original" target="_self"><img width="750" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/1978751279?profile=RESIZE_1024x1024" width="750" class="align-full"/></a></p>Georgia newbeetag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2013-01-17:4450389:BlogPost:715912013-01-17T02:38:47.000ZJon Hudsonhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/JonHudson
<p>Any get togethers in Georgia?</p>
<p>Any get togethers in Georgia?</p>Down Timetag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2012-09-02:4450389:BlogPost:657362012-09-02T16:11:42.000ZGus The VW Bushttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/SteveFaramelli
<p><a href="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7687.jpg"><img alt="" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-928" height="225" src="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7687-300x225.jpg" title="1978 VW bus engine" width="300"></img></a></p>
<p>I’ve noticed a familiar pattern in VW bus blogs. They all start with excitement – the purchase of a bus with big plans for camping and tooling around. A minor (or major) cosmetic restoration then occurs, followed by perhaps some actual driving around or camping. Inevitably, the next step seems to be engine problems, followed by an engine removal and rebuild. And that is where Gus is now.…</p>
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<p><a href="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7687.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-928" title="1978 VW bus engine" alt="" src="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7687-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225"/></a></p>
<p>I’ve noticed a familiar pattern in VW bus blogs. They all start with excitement – the purchase of a bus with big plans for camping and tooling around. A minor (or major) cosmetic restoration then occurs, followed by perhaps some actual driving around or camping. Inevitably, the next step seems to be engine problems, followed by an engine removal and rebuild. And that is where Gus is now.</p>
<p><a href="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7686.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-932" title="VW bus engine labeled for removal" alt="" src="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7686-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225"/></a></p>
<p>I’ve started removal of various engine hoses and pieces in preparation for engine removal, following <a href="http://www.ratwell.com/technical/EngineRemoval.html">Richard Atwell’s excellent guide</a> on his site <a href="http://www.ratwell.com/">ratwell.com</a>. If you haven’t been there before, it is a wealth of knowledge for the Bay Window VW Bus. I’ve labeled each connection with tape and a corresponding letter designation. Ratwell doesn’t say to do this, but in the past I’ve found this is an invaluable aid in reassembly.</p>
<p><a href="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7685.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-946" title="spare VW bus engine on ATV lift" alt="" src="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7685-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225"/></a></p>
<p>Here is the <a href="http://randum.info/blog/2011/11/08/new-engine/">spare engine</a> I picked up awhile ago. I’ve got it on the Harbor Freight jack so I can clean it up and reinstall the valve covers. I’m not sure this engine works, but I’m going off of what the previous owner told me about it. I’m going to tighten the cylinder head bolts to spec first, as he said it was leaking oil where one of the cylinders meets the block. I’m hoping the gasket is still intact, and tightening the cylinder head bolts will stop the oil leak. I realize I'm basing all my hopes and dreams about this engine from a tale told to me by a complete stranger I met after answering an ad off of Craigslist - a man who seemed credible despite the 5000 cats roaming around his yard. I did have to endure his tales of his ex-cop girlfriend tampering with the brakes on his truck. This resulted in him crashing and then getting snagged for a DUI, which was totally bogus as he had only had a few drinks with dinner. He seemed like a nice enough fellow though. The engine looks to be well cared for, so I'm hoping the story of the engine is true.</p>
<p><a href="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7688.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-953" title="VW bus muffler" alt="" src="http://randum.info/blog/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/IMG_7688-300x225.jpg" width="300" height="225"/></a></p>
<p>I recently picked up a new (used) muffler off of Craigslist also. Alas, it didn't come with any tales, just a normal guy selling a muffler. He did live in a gated community though, which was a nice upgrade pickup spot from the spare engine's location. I'm going to use this muffler with the spare engine, since Gus's engine has a catalytic converter with the muffler. So that's where Gus is at - I'm hoping to get more done on the engine removal and hopefully get the transmission from Gus hooked up to the spare engine so I can do a compression check to see if the spare is any good. Stay tuned!</p>Fun Camping Trip (title by E)tag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2012-08-20:4450389:BlogPost:654672012-08-20T17:45:50.000Zwhc03gradyhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/whc03grady
<p><a href="http://www.ludwigandgertie.com/2012/08/fun-camping-trip-title-by-e.html">http://www.ludwigandgertie.com/2012/08/fun-camping-trip-title-by-e.html</a></p>
<p><a href="http://www.ludwigandgertie.com/2012/08/fun-camping-trip-title-by-e.html">http://www.ludwigandgertie.com/2012/08/fun-camping-trip-title-by-e.html</a></p>Saturday 25th Camping and VW show in Birmingham!!tag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2012-08-19:4450389:BlogPost:655642012-08-19T17:27:39.000ZMysterybushttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/Mysterybus
<p>This Saturday is the Tannehill Bug Blast! Alabama's premier VW show and campout! Come Friday for a campout and party on the show site! Stay for the show Saturday and campout Saturday night again!! For infor go to <a href="http://www.tannehillbugblast.com/">www.tannehillbugblast.com</a> or e-mail <a href="mailto:mysterybus6966@gmail.com">mysterybus6966@gmail.com</a></p>
<p>This Saturday is the Tannehill Bug Blast! Alabama's premier VW show and campout! Come Friday for a campout and party on the show site! Stay for the show Saturday and campout Saturday night again!! For infor go to <a href="http://www.tannehillbugblast.com/">www.tannehillbugblast.com</a> or e-mail <a href="mailto:mysterybus6966@gmail.com">mysterybus6966@gmail.com</a></p>Happy to be part of the familytag:vwcamperfamily.ning.com,2012-06-27:4450389:BlogPost:647452012-06-27T17:34:09.000ZKevin & Debie Welchhttps://vwcamperfamily.ning.com/profile/KevinDebieWelch
<p><span class="font-size-4">Well after a year of great mechanics ( Larry Z's Sacramento Calif) GOWESTY, and a great deal from a painter ( and selling my 1939 street rode to payfor everything) Gus the bus is ready for new adventures. Please let us know of any northeren Calif. get aways anyone wants company on. Look forward to meeting all of you! Kevin and Debbie Welch and our furry kids Boomer and Freeway </span></p>
<p><span class="font-size-4">Well after a year of great mechanics ( Larry Z's Sacramento Calif) GOWESTY, and a great deal from a painter ( and selling my 1939 street rode to payfor everything) Gus the bus is ready for new adventures. Please let us know of any northeren Calif. get aways anyone wants company on. Look forward to meeting all of you! Kevin and Debbie Welch and our furry kids Boomer and Freeway </span></p>