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Transporter Talk Issue122 May June 2013 Official Bi-Monthly Magazine, of the Volkswagen Type 2 Owners’ Club; the only club for ALL five generations of VW Transporter (1950 ~ 2013) 52

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Page 1: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

Transporter Talk Issue122 May June 2013

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Page 2: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

Robin Taylor - President & Interim ChairmanThe Castle Gatehouse, Devizes, Wiltshire, SN10 1HLTel. 01380 723 927E-mail: [email protected]

Margaret Ward - Club SecretaryThe Millstone, Waterside, London Colney, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL2 1RBTel. 01727 825 319 and Mob. 07946 272 441E-mail: [email protected]

Bob Ward - Events Co-ordinatorThe Millstone, Waterside, London Colney, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL2 1RBTel. 01727 825 319 and Mob. 07946 272 441E-mail: [email protected]

Matthew “Taff” Hart - Treasurer & Website Manager1 Victoria Drive, Sale Moor, Cheshire, M33 3HZTel. 0161 283 8770E-mail: [email protected]

Ken Brimson - Membership Secretary28, Ashley Close, Winchester, Hampshire, SO22 6LRTel. 01962 884 146E-mail: [email protected]

Christie Leary - Camping Co-ordinator & Vice ChairmanStrawberry Fields, Springhill Road, Goring-on-Thames, Reading, Oxfordshire, RG8 0BYTel. 01491 873 990 and Mob. 07971 737 983E-mail: [email protected]

Derek Leary - PublicityStrawberry Fields, Springhill Road, Goring-on-Thames, Reading, Oxfordshire, RG8 0BYTel. 01491 873 990 andMob. 07836 537 722E-mail: [email protected]

Jon Dyer – Acting EditorSwindon, WiltshireTel. 01793 874 794E-mail: [email protected]

The Driving Force

Page 3: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

Alan Malone - General Committee12, Helena Court, South Woodham Ferrers, Chelmsford, CM3 5LZTel. 01245 329 239 and 07903 559 951 (Mobile) - no calls after 8:00 PM please!E-mail: [email protected]

Malcolm Marchbank - General CommitteeChesterwood Eardsley, Herefordshire, HR3 6NSTel. 01544 327 700E-mail: [email protected]

Mike Tout - Technical Manager & Valuations Manager93, Highland Terrace, Uffculme, Cullompton, Devon, EX15 3EWTel. 01884 841 598E-mail: [email protected]

Carolyn Tout - General Committee & Valuation Officer93, Highland Terrace, Uffculme, Cullompton, Devon, EX15 3EWTel. 01884 841 598E-mail: [email protected]

Sharon Harford - Junior Vee Dubbers Co-ordinator25, Denbigh Road, Uphatherley, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 3JHTel. 01242 583 395E-mail: [email protected]

Peter Good - Technical Advisor (mainly electrical)Lincoln Tel. 01522 751 941

Bruce Hodson - Technical AdvisorNorfolk Tel. 01263 734 444

Nigel A. Skeet - Technical Editor2a, Sydervelt Road, Canvey Island, Essex, SS8 9EGTel. 01 268 - 683 380 (between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM)E-mail: [email protected]

Published by the Volkswagen Type 2 Owners Club and Issued free to all members.

Printed by

ESP Colour Ltd, with the aid of Code Creative Design and MarketingThe Colour Hub, Swindon 01793 438400

Volkswagen Type Two Owners ClubRegistered OfficeThe Millstone, Waterside, London Colney, St Albans Hertfordshire AL2 1RB

Page 4: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

ContentsItem Page No

Editors Comment 3 Vice Chairs Chat 4Membership Matters 5New Website 6Budget News 7Valuation Contacts 7Shop 8Themed VW Baby Quilts and Play Mats 9Post Box 9Daisy Daze 12Easter Eggsperience 13Camping and Events Calendar 15Junior Dubbers AKA Wee Dubbers 19Martin Dorey Weekends 21A White Wedding 24Experiences of Overhauling a VW Engine 26 Replacing a Sliding Door Seal 29Replacing a Reversing Light Switch 30 The Way We Were 34Classified 39

Annual General MeetingStratford upon Avon Racecourse

Saturday 28 September 2013 2.00-5.00pm

Camping available, please see formal notice on page 11

Page 5: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

Editors Comments

Again it happens that no sooner have we all got back to our normal Monday to Friday and another edition of the magazine is due! Thanks for all the comments about the last issue, we are still learning which is the best way to put the magazine together.

Please see below a picture of my families van ( a 1980 Devon Moonraker) and my sons car (a 1970 VW 1600 TA Fastback) out for a day in the Cotwolds last summer, from the picture it could be 1979 all over again!

Please send your pictures of your present van, your old van or one of the van of your dreams. Where the picture was taken and when, we will try to use these as picture features and if we have enough interest perhaps a VWT2OC calendar.

This was August 2012 in Wyck Rissington, a small village between Bourton on the Water and Stow on the Wold. Please e-mail your pictures and captions to the Acting Editor Jon Dyer, details inside front cover.

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Page 6: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

VICE-CHAIRMAN'S CHAT

At the last committee meeting (January 2013), it was decided to get all club property together in one place. It's to this end, that I would like to say a BIG

THANK YOU to the following members:

1. Valuation Tent - Thanks to (a) Shaun Richards (West Wales) who looked after it; (b) Peter Bartlett for collecting it and taking it back to South Wales; and (c) Peter Thomas for transporting it to Oxford where we were able to take delivery

2. The Party Tent - Thanks to (a) Cav of Revesby Garage fame, who housed it; and (b) Mick & Ann Warby, who collected & looked after it, until we were able to collect it ourselves, when we were in the area.

3. Club Shop & Stock - Although Rex & Natalie Bale, made no complaint about housing this lodger, they must have been glad to see it go, enabling them to regain access to their summer house.

On behalf of the committee, a heart-felt thank you, to all of the above.

I would like to make the following public apology to Paul & Carol Jarvis (past chairmen), Rex Bale and Malcolm Ryan. In my eagerness for fairness and transparency of committee decisions, I inadvertently managed to upset the aforementioned members.

1. I used the Facebook page to announce where we were with Clickasite; not realising that the page titled VWT2 Owners & Friends, was not a club platform.

2. The above announcement was perceived by some, as the present committee criticising the previous committee, of which Paul & Carol Jarvis were a part. Nothing was further from my thoughts, so please accept this apology. Paul & Carol gave a lot of time to this club, which I experienced first hand during my first stint on VWT2OC committee. Clickasite has caused past & present committee members a lot of worry. I would like to thank all the past committee for supplying me with archived e-mails & correspondence to help further our claim against Clickasite.

3. I will be pursuing Clickasite, without any assistance from the present committee, so that they can concentrate on running the Club. When I have something worth reporting to you, the members, I will do so.

Kind regards, Christie Leary, Vice Chairman. 4

Page 7: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

MEMBERSHIP MATTERS

The club welcomes all new members, who joined since the last announcement. Up to the 5th April 2013, they were: Jane Baird, Lisa Beagle, P. Rennie, Andrew

Mills, Micheal Herbert and Jon Hillier. Now that Spring is here, it's time to get your van out of mothballs, if you are one of the lucky members who can put them away for the winter. Let's hope that the summer is better than it was last year and we can do more camping without getting too wet. Your committee have been working away in the background, and we have finally resolved the problem of membership-fee payments by Pay Pal, for those who wish to pay by this method. Please see below, for the procedure of how to do this.

Please ensure that you include your membership number for our records, so that I can renew your membership and send out your new membership. When your magazine arrives, please check whether your membership is due for renewal; the renewal reminder being on the back of the address label

Enter your Paypal account in the normal way, using your user-name and password and then click on the tab “Send Money” at the top of the screen.

Enter the e-mail address - [email protected] to ensure the money reaches us. Renewal fees are currently £25·00 per year.Then press continue.This will take you into another screen, that enables you to enter some details about what you are paying.

The top half of the screen confirms details of what and whom you are paying.

The bottom half of the screen enables you to tell us, which Membership number you are sending a renewal for. Please ensure that you complete this, as it will be almost impossible to identify you without this, and you will most likely have to follow up with a phone call to the Membership Secretary.

Then press the button “Send Money” in gold and that’s it!

Your membership will be renewed and you will receive a new membership card in due course.

Regards. Ken Brimson, Membership Secretary

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Page 8: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

THE NEW VWT2OC WEBSITE - A PHOENIX ARISING FROM THE ASHES

Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart

The Club’s website, is no longer available at either the http://www.vwt2oc.co.uk or the http://www.vwt2oc.com website addresses. For the foreseeable future, we no

longer have control of these domain names.

The NEW Club website, born out of the ashes of the OLD Club website, can NOW be found at the http://www.vwt2oc.net/ website address. Here, you can:

• Discover the latest Club news• Read about future events the club has organised• Find news and other items, of interest to all VW Transporter variant owners• Renew your annual subscription to the club using Paypal• Access an exclusive members’ area - current password - bogdan• Access a growing number of Transporter Talk back issues• Read member’s stories• Submit comments on any story on the website

In time, we aim to add an on-line shop for club merchandise and create a growing database of technical articles. We hope this website will never stagnate; being continually refreshed with interesting new content. We look forward to receiving your comments.

We currently run a group on Facebook, which we are using as a forum for anything of interest to Club members. Please find us and join us at:

http://www.facebook.com/groups/354102731373126/members/

We also have a page which allows us to interact with the website and post items of interest to the club. Please find it here and “like” us:

https://www.facebook.com/pages/VW-Type-Two-Owners-Club/140419162800788

Connect with us on Twitter - our user-name is @VWT2OC

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Page 9: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

NATIONAL BUDGET 2013 - IMPLICATIONS FOR VOLKSWAGENTRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC)

Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart

There’s good news for classic car owners in the 2013 budget. From 2014, the exemption from VED (road tax) will be extended to 1974. And that means all cars

manufactured in 1973 - previously liable for the annual tax - will now qualify for the exemption. Also, SORNs will no longer be annual, but indefinite.

The measure, which was announced by the Chancellor of The Exchequer George Osbourne, means that M registered campers (below) are now considered ‘tax-free’. The VED classic vehicle exemption, which was originally introduced in 1994 to roll along at 25 years has until now been set at a fixed date - 1 January 1973 - since 1997.

The new cut-off date for classic vehicles will take effect from 1 April 2014, and covers all cars manufactured before 1 January 1974. Although it has not been announced, whether there will be a return to the pre-1997 rolling exemption, this comes into effect on the 40-year anniversary, it seems likely that this might be the case.

It was also announced in the budget, that SORN - Statutory Off-Road Notifications will no longer need to be renewed on an annual basis. It was confirmed that the Finance Bill 2013, contains this statement: “the Government will put off-the-road declarations onto an indefinite basis”. The Government will also extend the grace period to 14 days, following the payment of tax, on the non-display of the tax disc in a vehicle. This logical move has been introduced to reduce tax administration costs.

Valuation Matters

Technical Manager & Valuations Manager - Mike Tout93, Highland Terrace, Uffculme, Cullompton, Devon, EX15 3EWTel. 01884 841 598 E-mail: [email protected]

General Committee & Valuation Officer - Carolyn ToutAs AboveValuation Officers - Jon & Cath BakerTel. 01594 541 395Valuation Officer - John WelshTel. 0191 383 1560Valuation Officer - Keith MillerTel. 01279 303 456

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Page 10: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

SPECIAL OFFER - VWT2OC POLO SHIRTS & HOODIES

Black polo shirts (priced at £11·00) and hoodies (priced at £20·00), bearing the new five-van VWT2OC logo, in sizes S, M, L or XL, are now available by mail-order, POST-FREE (applicable to UK only), from the Club.

Send cheques, payable to the Volkswagen Type 2 Owners’ Club, to VWT2OC, Strawberry Fields, Springhill Road, Goring, Oxfordshire, RG8 0BY.

Annual General MeetingStratford upon Avon Racecourse

Saturday 28 September 2013 2.00-5.00pm

Camping available, please see formal notice on page 11

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Page 11: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER THEMED, BABY QUILTS & PLAY MATS

VWT2OC member Lynn Skinner (member No. 20280), made some baby quilts & play mats, for her two recently-born grandchildren, using some VW Transporter

themed, printed fabrics, as illustrated below. It has been suggested by Lynn’s relatives, that other VW-loving parents, who have just had a new baby (the human variety, not a VW!), might appreciate a similar gift.

These are made in fully-washable fabric, in any colour to suit, of size approximately 90 cm x 90 cm (i.e. about 3 feet x 3 feet), priced at £15·00 plus postage & packing. Fabric samples are available on request. Quilts and/or play mats, can normally be despatched within seven days, of receiving an order & payment.

If you would like to commission the creation, of one or more of the above, please contact Lynn Skinner by e-mail: [email protected]

Post BoxSue Ball - Regretable Vehicle Sale & Response to TT121 Article

. . . Thanks for all your efforts to keep Transporter Talk going, the latest issue was very interesting, especially the piece in praise of older, simpler technology; I used to have a Morris Traveller years ago - it taught me some good basic mechanics and I have twice managed to ‘fix’ a problem with our VW when out alone, which impressed me - never mind the chaps who were watching !!!

My husband and I have been members of the T2 owners club, since we first acquired our 1978 T2 crew-cab pick-up and have been frequently grateful, for all the help and

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Page 12: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

advice from the technical team and the magazine, over the 12 years we’ve owned her. Sadly, we now find ourselves in a position, where we have to sell our crew-cab, and so I’m mailing to enquire, about placing an advertisement in the next issue of Transporter Talk. . . .

Many thanks, keep up the good work! Membership renewal is in the post, as received with the latest issue.

Ian Crawford, Member No. 5906 - Motor Insurance & MOT Exemptions

I’ve just received my annual road tax reminder from the DVLA - Form V11, for my Suzuki Ignis. This year there is an extra paragraph below the 6 months / 12 months / SORN tick-box section, which states, “From 18th November 2012, vehicles manufactured or registered BEFORE 1st January 1960, will NO LONGER NEED AN MOT . . .”. This seems strange to me, as I would have thought that those vehicles were the ones most likely in need of regular MOTs.

I’ve also just received my VW Type 2’s insurance renewal invitation from Towergate Classic Motor in Milton Keynes. It included an “Administration Fee” of £28·00, which had been increased by 133·33% since last year! I telephoned them (01 908 - 258 412) to say I was NOT going to pay this extortionate increase and would only pay the £12·00, that I had paid last year. They agreed to this, so I’ve sent off a cheque for £121·80 for the year’s insurance (fully comprehensive on an agreed valuation of £14,000). This sum is half what Glynwood quoted (they’re supposed to be the VW Type 2 specialists), which makes one wonder, doesn’t it!

Roy Thompson - VW Type 25 Instrument-Panel Resistor Failure!?!

I wonder if you could ask (in Transporter Talk), if there are any electronically minded T25 owners who could do me a favour. Some time ago, the instrument voltage stabiliser shorted out. It has since been replaced, but a component on the printed circuit has been damaged and I was hoping that when they checked their brake fluid, they could take a look and identify the component. It looks like a resistor and is the second component down on the small panel, that lies to the right of the fluid reservoir.

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If they could just describe it and identifythe layout of the coloured bands, then I should be able to identify its value. If any one would like to contact me for further details, my email is [email protected] thanks and keep up with the great work.

Annual General MeetingStratford upon Avon Racecourse

Saturday 28 September 2013 2.00-5.00pm

Notice is hereby given that the Annual General Meeting for the Vollkwagen Type Two Owners Club will take place at the above venue at the time stated.

In line with the clubs Contitution and Rules all nominations for committee posts must be recieved by the club secretary, Maggie Ward (details inside front cover) by 15 July 2013.

In accordance with the constitution and rules the following posts must be filled by a member of the committee that has served for at least 90 days prior to election at the AGM, these are:

Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer.

If you wish to stand please send your nomination to Maggie stating the position you wish to stand for in writing and signed by a propser and seconder.

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Page 14: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

DAISY DAZE CAMPING NEWS

Seaside Summer Solstice, is proving a popular choice at Camping Caradon Looe Cornwall (see events). However we still have room for more. No deposit is needed,

but full payment is required by 4th May. Cheques, made payable to Mrs. C. B. Leary, should be sent to my home address (listed under Driving Force, at the front of the magazine). DO NOT FORGET YOUR FIRE BUCKETS AT BOTH OF THE ABOVE.

Back in February, we all had a grand time, visiting the BMW factory on the outskirts of Oxford, to see the Mini being produced. We used the Camping & Caravanning Club site at Oxford as our base. The site, still suffering from the over-supply of rain water, put us on the internal roads using them as hard standing. This worked well. The local pub, together with with the Go Outdoors camping shop next door, kept us fed, watered and entertained. The bus service, leaving the park & ride opposite, swept us with ease into the city.

Two of our regular campers didn’t make it because of health problems. We wish them both well and hope to see them both at Easter. We have been asked to repeat this event. It is a real shame that children are not allowed, as it is very educational. It certainly opened my eyes. Maybe, it’s because the black overall coats, with which we were all issued, would not fit the smaller folk. They didn’t do a lot for the older generation. Sadly we do not have a photo to prove the point, as both cameras and mobile telephones were banned.

Please remember, that if you want a T2 camp in your area, then you need to volunteer running one. As camping co-ordinator I will help with the logistics. Happy Daze. Christie Leary

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Page 15: Transporter Talk justkampersinsurance.com Issue122 May ... · TRANSPORTERS (EXTENDED ROAD-TAX EXEMPTIONS, ETC) Compiled & Written by Matthew “Taff” Hart T here’s good news for

We had a brrrrrrr-illiant weekend at

Church Farm,Sixpenny Handley,Salisbury,Wiltshire. True it was cold but dry .The night skies at this venue are something to behold an astronomers dream. No wonder it is the venue of choice for stargazers. A few members did drop out at the last minute due to the weather forecast which was far worse than reality.Funny that ! I’ve noticed weather predictions are always full of doom and gloom when a bank holiday is due. A cunning ployTo keep us off the road methinks !. Dusty gave us a flawless ride sidestepping the various potholes on the way. We were pleased to find Lee Moneypenny also Steve Judd (owners/Managers) were alive and well. Having received an email purportedly from them saying they were in gaol somewhere in South America. Would we send a heap of money to get them out. With a pinch of salt it was taken to be a scam. Which it was. Church Farm has a bar/restaurant called ‘The Shed’ and this gave us a place to meet in

the evenings. Along with the local pub it provided us with two eating venues for those who wanted a break from the kitchen.Saturday night was curry night. Three different options were on offer and refills were encouraged .If that wasn’t enough foodthen a splendid Sunday roast and puds were on offer the next day at the local pub. No wonder I put on weight that week.Salisbury was visited using the local bus service giving us the chance to meet up with happy campers David & Emma Hamilton.who due to work commitments were unable to camp over the weekend .The were impressed that we had struck a deal of only £12.50 a night including hook-up. Having enquired direct for one nights camp and were quoted around the £20 mark.To be fair to Church Farm they are not always that expensive but bank holidays do come with a premium. They also laid on a lotOf children’s entertainment, Easter egg hunts and the like. So much so the children were seen but not heard. The Holy ghost

EASTER EGGSPERIENCE 28th March to 2nd April 2013 - REPORT

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must have been amongst us over the weekend as we were moved to peruse the village church and while in Salisbury the Cathedral was much enjoyed. As was the NT property called Mompesson House opposite. With Edward Heaths house a few steps away which unfortunately is no longer open to the public. The spirit moved us on to the local Wetherspoons pub. Here we took to sampling guest ales. Just for educational purposes you understand. Another church was visited in Salisbury on the Sunday evening with two fellow campers for the evening service. After which we went back to the camp to polish our halos . The Monday saw half of our units depart the rest stayed on until the Tuesday. We ourselves travelled back that day via a different route. Taking in the wonderful scenery of Cranbourne Chase bathed in spring sunshine.

Ed

Sunday Lunch His Grace “DJ Hammy”

Edward Heaths former house and Ruth with her mobile house and doggie friends

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SHOWS, CAMPING & OTHER EVENTS

The VW Type 2 Owners Club has booked camping areas with the following four shows.

Friday, 5th ~ Sunday, 7th July 2013 - Camperjam, Weston Park, Shropshire. http://www.camperjam.com/

Friday, 6th ~ Sunday, 8th September 2013 - VW Busfest, Three Counties Show Ground, Malvern. http://www.busfest.org/

VW Busfest - We have been offered a FREE trading area at VW Busfest, on the condition that we can make a display of 3 ~ 5 vans. We would like to accept this offer, but we do not know who is going! Hence, we NEED 3 ~ 5 members, together with their VW vans, to create a display at Busfest. This is your opportunity, to represent your club. If you are going, and would like to take part, then please contact Maggie Ward (contact details inside magazine front cover), the VWT2OC Club Secretary.

MMM Magazine Shows

Friday, 17th ~ Sunday, 19th May 2013 - The Southern Motorcaravan Show - max 4 nights; £38·00; Newbury Showground, Newbury, Berkshire.

Friday, 16th ~ Sunday, 18th August 2013 - The Western Motorhome Show - max 4 nights; £52·00; Three Counties Showground, Malvern.

Book all of these MMM shows on-line, at http://www.outandaboutlive.co.uk/ click the link to clubs and look for VWT2OC.

Other shows and events (including the Just Kampers Open Day, the VWT2OC’s AGM, other club activities and commercially organised shows), are as follows:

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Sunday, 5th May - Stanford Hall - Stanford Hall, Lutterworth, Leics LE17 6DH. http://www.stanfordhallvw.co.uk/

Friday, 10th ~ Sunday, 12th May 2013 - Vanwest VW Holiday - Warren Farm Holiday Park, Somerset. http://www.vanwest.net

Friday, 10th ~ Sunday, 12th May 2013 - Vdub At The Pub | Reboot Festival - Wimborne, Dorset. http://www.vdubatthepub.com/

Friday, 17th ~ Monday, 20th May 2013 - Campervan Weekends with Martin Dorey - North Devon coasthttp://www.martindorey.com/campervanweekends3/

Friday, 17th ~ Sunday, 19th May 2013 - Battlesbridge VW Show - Battlesbridge, Essex. http://www.essexveedubbers.org.uk

Friday, 17th ~ Sunday, 19th May 2013 - Apex Festival - Lydden Hill Race Circuit, Kent. http://www.apexfestival.co.uk

Friday, 17th ~ Sunday, 19th May 2013 - Vanjamboree - Lincolnshire Event Centre, Lincoln. http://www.vanjamboree.co.uk

Saturday, 18th ~ Sunday, 19th May 2013 - All Types VW Show - Bodelwyddan Castle, North Wales. http://www.dubshows.co.uk

Sunday, 19th May 2013 - VWT2OC New Forest Group Meeting - meet initially at 9:00 am, at the Fleet Services, on the M3 motorway, and then travel in convoy to Dubs in The Park.

Sunday, 19th May 2013 (11:00 am ~ 5:00 pm) - Dubs at the Park - Easthampstead Park, Peacock Lane, Wokingham, Berkshire, RG40 3DF. http://www.ltv-vwc.co.uk or http://www.dubsatthepark.co.uk/

Friday, 24th ~ Sunday, 26th May 2013 - Plymouth Volksfest - Newnham Park, Plympton, Plymouth. http://www.plymouthvolksfest.co.uk

Friday, 24th ~ Sunday, 26th May 2013 - Volksfling - Biggar Showgroundhttp://www.volksfling.co.uk

Friday, 24th ~ Monday, 27th May 2013 - Run to the Sun (RTTS) - Newquay, Cornwall. http://www.runtothesun.co.uk/

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Friday, 31st May ~ Monday, 3rd June 2013 - Campervan Weekends with Martin Dorey - North Devon coast http://www.martindorey.com/campervanweekends3/

Saturday, 1st ~ Sunday, 2nd June 2013 - Dubs Mania - Weston Park, Shropshire. http://www.dubs-mania.co.uk

Sunday, 2nd June 2013 - Stonor Park VW Expo - Stonor Park, Henley On Thames. http://www.abvwc.com

Friday, 7th ~ Sunday, 9th June 2013 - Just Kampers Open Day “Weekend” - Just Kampers, Odiham, Hampshire. http://justkampers.com

Just Kampers have 200 camping pitches available for the nights of Friday, 7th June and Saturday, 8th June 2013 for their annual JK Open Day.

http://email.justkampers.com/t/j-l-jikylkt-nhrtlyki-w/These are available to reserve on a first-come, first-served basis, and all profits from the booking, will be donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital, who are the charity that we’re supporting this year. JK will be covering the costs of toilets, showers and facilities for the duration of the weekend. The Open Day is located in the middle of the Hampshire countryside in Odiham, just down the M3 from Basingstoke. There are numerous local attractions to keep you entertained throughout the weekend, and friendly, well behaved dogs are welcome. To book, go onto the Just Kampers Website.

Friday, 7th ~ Sunday, 9th June 2013 - Deva Dubs n Rods - Shrewsbury Showground. http://www.devadubshow.co.uk

Friday, 7th ~ Sunday, 9th June 2013 - Bristol Volksfest - Washingpool Farm, Easter Compton, Bristol. http://www.bristolvolksfest.co.uk

Friday, 7th ~ Sunday, 9th June 2013 - Alive & V-Dubbin - Jimmy`s Farm. http://www.aliveandvdubbin.co.uk/

Friday, 14th ~ Saturday, 15th June 2013 - Mighty Dub Fest - Druridge Bay Country Park, Northumberland. http://www.mightydubfest.co.uk

Friday, 14th ~ Saturday, 16th June 2013 - The Bus Stop Over - Uttoxeter Racecourse, Staffordshire. http://www.thebusstopover.co.uk

Friday, 14th ~ Monday, 17th June 2013 - Campervan Weekend with Martin Dorey - North Devon coast http://www.martindorey.com/campervanweekends3/

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Saturday, 15th ~ Saturday, 22nd June 2013 - Seaside Summer Solstice Rally - Camping Caradon, Trelawne, Looe, Cornwall, PL13 2NA. http://www.campingcaradon.co.uk£12·50 / £10·00 per night with / without electric hook-up. Full Facilities. Pets welcome. Shop, bar and restaurant on site. Local bus service. Limited spaces available. Contact Christie Leary (contact details inside magazine front cover).

Friday, 21st ~ Sunday, 23rd June 2013 - Dubbing in Dorset - Birchwood Tourist Park, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 7PA. http://www.dubbingindorset.co.uk/

Thursday, 27th ~ Saturday, 29th June 2013 - Bloxham Steam Rally - Milton Road, Bloxham, Banbury, Oxfordshire, OX15 4HD. http://www.banburryrally.com

£30·00 includes entry fee and camping for 2 adults and 3 children. Portaloos only & no showers. Contact Christie Leary (contact details inside magazine front cover). Please check for further details before booking.

Friday 28th June ~ Monday, 1st July 2013 - Campervan Weekend with Martin Dorey - North Devon coasthttp://www.martindorey.com/campervanweekends3/

Friday, 12th ~ Monday, 15th July 2013 - Campervan Weekend with Martin Dorey - North Devon coasthttp://www.martindorey.com/campervanweekends3/

Friday, 19th ~ Monday, 22nd July 2013 - Campervan Weekend with Martin Dorey - North Devon coasthttp://www.martindorey.com/campervanweekends3/

Friday, 27th ~ Sunday, 29th September 2013 - VWT2OC AGM - Stratford-upon-Avon Racecourse See Seperate announcement within this issue.

For other shows after June 2013 and/or outside the United Kingdom, check at http://www.vwshows.com/

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JUNIOR VEE DUBBERS (aka WEE DUBBERS!?!) BIRTHDAYS

Birthday greetings from the VWT2OC, to the following junior vee dubbers, who have recently celebrated their birthdays.

Spencer (21st January | aged 5) and Evelyn (30th January | aged 2)

Colm (1st February | aged 5), Jack (2nd February | aged 14), Sophie (3rd February | aged 7), Emily (8th February | aged 14), Millie (10th February | aged 10), Bethany (10th March | aged 14), Fraser (12th February | aged 12), Theo (13th February | aged 11), Emily (16th February | aged 13), Lily (18th February | aged 14), Sophie (19th February | aged 9), Matthew (20th February | aged 15), Maisie (23rd February | aged 6), Daniel (26th February | aged 15) and Alexander (26th February | aged 15)

Amelie (5th March | aged 8), Katie (6th March | aged 11), Archie (7th March | aged 3), Alicia (14th March | aged 14), Callum (16th March | aged 14), Jake (23rd March | aged 5) and George (31st March | aged 3).

It seems that we somehow overlooked Spencer and Evelyn, when we compiled TT121, for the January & February 2013 issue!?! We haven’t forgotten those with birthdays in April, who will be mentioned in the next magazine issue.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

JUNIOR VEE DUBBERS (aka WEE DUBBERS!?!)

Co-ordinated by Sharon Harford

Hi wee-dubbers, my name is Sharon and I’m going to have a go with your help, at putting the wee-dubbers’ page together.

I have had so much fun reading through some of the old Transporter Talk magazines and seeing pictures and stories about you and your vans. In June 2006, Issue 83, Charlie Carson told us about going to lots of van festivals and also drew a lovely picture of a van.

Then in June 2010, Issue 107, on the front cover, there was a great picture of a van called Katy with two children. Inside the magazine, was the story of how they had got their van. I do hope you guys are still having fun in your vans! It would be great to see pictures, drawings, jokes and stories about you in your vans. We also want to hear from you older wee dubbers. I know the name wee-dubbers might put you off, but these pages are for anyone up to the age of 16. What’s more, it can be about anything which interests you, whether it be music, books, jokes, sports, or maybe even cookery recipes. Anyway, your jokes have got to be better then mine, of which the following is one example!

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During their holiday, Jim went out in the rain with his mum and dad, but only two of them got wet hair. Why? Dad was completely bald!

Kids love play-dough, but the stuff from the shops, is full of goodness knows what, and don’t they always try to eat it?! This recipe is entirely edible, but because it contains a lot of salt, it will taste ghastly. It’s also really fun to make with your child, as well as being useful for creating things!

It’s worth investing in some ‘cup’ measuring scoops, which one can get from places like Lakeland or John Lewis. So many recipes these days use cup-measures. If you don’t have them, a cup is about 225 ml, 0·4 pints or 8 fl.oz, so if necessary, you can measure out the salt and flour, using a standard measuring jug.

Non-cook recipe:

• ½ cup of salt• ½ cup of water• 1 cup of plain flour• Food dye (any colour or leave it plain)• Newspaper or silicone mat to cover the surface you’re working on• Large bowl

1. Measure the flour and salt into a mixing bowl.2. Add a few drops of food colouring into the water and add this to the bowl.3. Stir with a spoon until it’s all mixed. Add a bit more flour if it’s too wet,

or more water if it’s too dry.4. Bring together with your hands and knead it until it’s the right consistency.5. After you have finished playing with it, wrap it in cling film. It should last

for about a week.

6. HAVE FUN.

Bye for now. Sharon Harford

Editor’s note - Please note that the reference to fluid volume in pints, means Imperial pints rather than US pints, which are much smaller. The US quarts & gallons, are also smaller than Imperial quarts & gallons. Please don’t use the engine-oil measuring jug (usually calibrated in litres) from the garage, which should only be used for that purpose!

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MARTIN DOREY - ONE MAN AND HIS CAMPERVAN:CAMPERVAN WEEKENDS ON THE NORTH DEVON COAST

Compiled & Written by Nigel A. Skeet

At least some of you might be aware, that Martin Dorey drives a V-registration, red & white, “bay-window”, 1978/79 VW 1600 Type 2 Devon Double-Top

campervan, which seems to be rather prone to mechanical failures and breakdowns; recently suffering a clutch failure, which necessitated the use of an AA Relay recovery vehicle. During the past few years or so, he has presented his own TV programme, entitled “One Man And His Campervan”, in which he has been touring various regions of Great Britain, sampling locally produced food, some of which, he has cooked himself by various means; often over an open camp fire.

However, in the few programme episodes that I have seen, I have yet to witness him actually cooking in the campervan itself, using the vehicle’s own built-in cooking facilities; preferring to cook alfresco. In one episode, he visited Arbroath (just up the road, from my childhood home in Lochee, Dundee), north of the River Tay, in the county of Angus, on the eastern coast of Scotland, to learn the secret of creating an Internationally trademarked smoked-haddock, known universally as an Arbroath Smokie.

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http://www.arbroathsmokies.net/what-is-a-smokie.html

http://arbroath-smokie.co.uk/catalog/

To date, the television programmes have been released on DVD (as far afield as Australia, as I’ve discovered!) and Martin has had two campervan cookery books (intermediate between A4 and A5 sized formats), of 228 and 320 pages respectively, published as follows, but I have not yet had the opportunity to examine either book, so I cannot comment upon their suitability. Signed copies of each of these books, together with an inscribed personal message, are available direct from Martin Dorey, priced at £19·99 each, including postage and packing. If you don’t require the personal touch, copies are available post-free from Amazon, priced at £10·87 each; which is almost half the price.

Martin Dorey & Sarah Randell, “The Camper Van Cookbook: Life on 4 Wheels, Cooking on 2 Rings”, Saltyard Books, 27th May 2010, ISBN-10: 1444703897 and ISBN-13: 978-1444703894.

Martin Dorey, “The Camper Van Coast: Cooking, Eating, Living the Life”, Saltyard Books, 12th April 2012, ISBN-10: 1444703943 and ISBN-13: 978-1444703948.

http://www.martindorey.com/

http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Camper-Van-Cookbook-Cooking/dp/1444703897/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_y/279-8740230-9024631

http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Camper-Van-Coast-Cooking/dp/1444703943/ref=pd_sim_b_4/279-3851623-1648420

http://www.amazon.co.uk/One-Man-And-His-Campervan/dp/B00BLKQT58

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Recently, he announced, that he was offering “Camper Van Weekends with Martin Dorey” for modest-sized groups of people, at one or more private-camping locations, along the North Devon coast, during May, June & July of this year. Meeting initially on a Friday evening at Hartland Quay, one eats at a local public house and camps overnight in a private field overlooking the ocean; driving to the main venue after breakfast on Saturday morning. The event concludes on Monday morning; campers departing after breakfast. These events are not cheap; costing £320 for an individual, £595 for a couple, £795 for a family of two adults and two young children (extra £100 for a child of age 8~16), and £960 for a group of four. On his website, Martin describes these weekends as follows:

« Join me in the summer of 2013 on a series of Campervan Weekends at superb private camping locations next to the sea in North Devon. We’ll cook locally sourced food in the open air, go foraging with an expert, catch our supper, learn to surf, explore wrecks off the coast and even set up our own private seaweed spa right on the beach! By night we’ll enjoy evenings around the fire with food, drink and live music. These weekends will be very relaxed and informal. We’ll all be expected to muck in although everything, including portaloos, will be provided. Solar showers will also be available for those who dare. However please don’t expect to live in luxury - this is camping! »

« Don’t have a van? Get 15% off camper hire with O’Connors Campers when you book the weekends. Places are limited to 10 people and 5 campervans per weekend. Unfortunately no dogs will be allowed, due to livestock near camping sites. Book on-line via http://www.martindorey.com/weekend-away-form/ or telephone Zoe or Penny at O’Connor’s Campers on 01 837 - 659 599. »

http://www.martindorey.com/modules/downloadable_files/assets/martin-dorey-information-form-2.pdf

Annual General MeetingStratford upon Avon Racecourse

Saturday 28 September 2013 2.00-5.00pm

Camping available, please see formal notice on page 11

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A “WHITE WEDDING” IN MARCH!

By Lynn Skinner, Member No. 20280

When our friends asked us sometime ago, if we would use our 1973 VW Type 2 Westfalia Continental ‘Hayley’, to deliver the bride and bridesmaids to the

wedding venue, for a wedding scheduled on 23rd March 2013, we were delighted to oblige. March 2012 was hot! March 2013 was not! Undeterred, we washed and polished ‘Hayley’ and bedecked her with purple ribbons; in keeping with the colour theme. On Saturday morning, we awoke to find everything covered in snow and more snow still falling. For once, the weather forecasters had got it right! However, the Vale of Evesham was not as badly affected as some areas, so we at least, could get ‘Hayley’ out of the garage and off the drive.

The venue was the Three Ways House Hotel, at Mickleton, in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire - the home of the world famous Pudding Club. Every Friday evening, guests can partake of a small main course before the parade of seven traditional

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puddings, all served with lashings of custard. You get a certificate if you eat them all!

http://threewayshousehotel.com/

http://www.puddingclub.com/

We are pleased to say, that Hayley collected her charges and delivered them safely, and a wonderful day was had by all. Although no guests were unable to attend, some required help from their neighbours, to remove the deep snow from their driveways and hence exhume their vehicles. Hayley has now been returned to her garage, to keep warm until summer eventually comes.

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EXPERIENCES OF OVERHAULING A VOLKSWAGENAIR-COOLED ENGINE AND OTHER MATTERS ARISING

Compiled & Written by Nigel A. Skeet

Sometime in early 1983, our 1973 VW 1600 Type 2’s AD-series engine, developed a major oil leak, which we were unable to trace; leading us to completely dismantle

the engine and renew every conceivable oil seal and gasket, plus the steel, pushrod tubes, which were noticeably rusty. Although by that time, I had quite a good selection of tools, including two click-stop torque wrenches, none of them were suitable for removing the 36 mm AF, flywheel gland bolt, which is tightened to a very large torque.

Fortunately, one of my engineering-student colleagues at Cranfield, named Jonathan Wells, loaned me his ¾ inch drive T-bar and 36 mm AF socket tool, which he used for the rear wheel hubs, of his VW based, autocross space frame buggies. Even with this tool, one needed to slide a long steel pipe (being several feet long, it is referred to in some quarters, as a scaffold pole), over the T-bar, in order to produce sufficient torque. When we later refitted the flywheel bolt, we were faced with the problem of how to obtain the correct tightening torque (which is critical for this engine); not having a torque wrench of sufficient capacity. This was finally resolved by weighing myself on the bathroom scales and then standing on the T-bar, pipe extension, the appropriate distance from the socket centre; ensuring that the pipe was horizontal.

Ten years later, in 1993, when we sold the 1600 engine, second-hand, in favour of a VW Type 4 style engine (the virtues of which, Jonathan Wells had extolled to me, in 1983), the buyer recounted a tale of woe, about his supposedly “reconditioned” 1600 exchange engine, whose flywheel bolt had not been adequately tightened. The flywheel subsequently came loose, resulting in a severely damaged engine, which was effectively written off.

On the whole, removing, dismantling, rebuilding and refitting the 1600 engine (my first ever attempt at such things) was child’s play (in many respects, simpler than doing a 200 piece jigsaw puzzle), but removing some of the cover-plates was a nightmare. Many of the cheese-head, slotted M6 screws had rusted in solid and needed to be drilled out very carefully. Noting that the screwdriver slots of conventional and Philips head screws were easily damaged, I later replaced them with 10 mm AF, hex-head M6 bolts, which would withstand higher torque. At a later date, I took the further precaution of coating the screw threads, with anti-seize copper grease. These days, I would also be inclined, to substitute stainless steel bolts and/or Allen socket-head screws, which are what I am using, on my transplanted VW Type 4 style engine.

Many of the cover-plates had corroded where they were exposed to the elements; having been given only a thin coat of paint at the factory. In some places, the steel had become

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wafer thin, necessitating repair. All the cover-plates were comprehensively treated with D-Rust (a phosphoric acid based rust treatment solution), to etch all the rust out of the pits, and repaired as necessary, by brazing on reinforcement sections, before repainting them with several coats of Finnigan’s Hammerite. When I sold the engine in 1993, these cover-plates were still in excellent overall condition, which I have since sold off piece-meal, during the following years; some as recently as 2010~12!

Removing the old exhaust silencer, proved to be no picnic either, and it was necessary to use a hacksaw and cold chisel, in order to disengage it from the heat exchangers. Had removal of the exhaust silencer not been necessary, it would probably have lasted a few more years. The original exhaust-manifold nuts, incorporated HeliCoil™ thread inserts, which did not rust, but the hexagonal outer portion had corroded badly and no spanner (neither metric nor imperial) would fit them snugly, so “copper exhaust-manifold-nuts”, were purchased as replacements.

We did initially obtain a stainless steel replacement silencer, from the local branch of Qwik Fit Euro, but this would not align correctly (may have been intended for a VW 1200 engine!?), with the cylinder head exhaust ports and/or the heat exchangers, so it was returned to the suppliers. Ultimately, we fitted a Scat ‘Monza’ style silencer, with two integral twin tail pipes, from the USA, purchased from the German Car Company, in Hadleigh, Essex. This lasted well, for nearly 8 years, until Easter 1991, when one of the twin tail pipes dropped off, somewhere on the M40 or M25 motorways. The so-called “copper exhaust-manifold-nuts”, which had been fitted nearly 8 years earlier, proved to be merely copper-plated steel nuts, and had rusted onto the screw studs; one of which sheared off and resulted in the need for an expensive repair to the cylinder head.

I had never been impressed with the standard, single-piece, exhaust-silencer clamps, intended for the VW 1600 Type 2, so instead I used a pair of two-piece, VW Beetle tail-pipe clamps, which are more fiddly to fit (see Transporter Talk, Issue 27, February 1997, Pages 24~25), but provide a better seal between the heat exchangers and silencer. To be sure of a gas-tight seal, I also used a liberal quantity of Holts Firegum; a well-known brand of exhaust system sealant.

During the engine strip down, it was discovered that the valve guides were excessively worn, so the cylinder heads were taken to a local engine reconditioning workshop, in Basildon, Essex, for refurbishment. This proved to be yet another encounter with shoddy workmanship, resulting in one of our cylinder heads being consigned to the scrap bin. It was alleged that the damage had arisen, as the result of some earlier bodged attempt at replacing a single valve guide. The workshop manager disclaimed all responsibility, and showed us a cracked exhaust port, together with a rough-hewn valve guide, which had supposedly been removed from it. In our own minds, we were convinced that this was a deliberate falsehood, but could not prove it!

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The cylinder head also exhibited deep bruising of the cooling fins, consistent with violent blows from a large ball-peen hammer; marks which we knew had not been present, when we submitted our cylinder heads for refurbishment. As a consequence of this episode, we were obliged to purchase a new, replacement cylinder head, from another supplier. Although this was for a VW 1600 engine, with the same sized valve heads as the original, the exhaust valve stem diameter was 9 mm, rather than 8 mm. I suspect there may have been other, more subtle differences, which were not apparent to my then untrained eye.

Such differences, may have contributed to cylinders 1 & 2, running hotter than cylinders 3 & 4, which I noticed some years later. Since then, I have learned that there are at least nine different VW 1600 ‘twin-port’ cylinder heads, with three different, standard combinations of valve head sizes, plus probably various differences in combustion chamber shape, volume and deck-height (i.e. squish or quench) clearance too. With hindsight, we should have noted the part number, cast into the rocker box of the defunct cylinder head (assuming it was originally ours!), but in those days, we believed there was only one type of VW 1600 cylinder head and were unacquainted with the significance of the suffix letters, in VW part numbers.

Whilst the engine was still out, it was a good opportunity to remove and inspect the petrol tank, which exhibited some corrosion around the fuel outlet, beneath the vehicle. Although there was slight pitting in places, the thickness of the steel had not been significantly compromised, so it was sufficient simply to etch out the rust pits, using D-Rust and repaint the refurbished surface. Other areas of the petrol tank were also showing signs of superficial rusting, which were similarly treated.

Having removed the bulkhead plate to gain access to the petrol tank, it was apparent that this too was rusting in places, so this was also refurbished before repainting. In common with the engine cover plates, the petrol tank and bulkhead plate, had received only a thin coat of paint at the factory, so all items received several coats of Hammerite; paying particular attention to those areas, which previously had rusted.

Prior to painting, I had twenty one, captive M6 nuts (with hindsight, M5 nuts might have been better!), welded onto the back of the bulkhead plate, coinciding with the top, middle and bottom, of the seven vertical ribs; anticipating that at some time in the future, I might wish to fit, electronic ignition and perhaps other accessories, which would need to be mounted in the engine compartment.

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1973 VW 1600 Type 2, removeable fuel-tank compartment bulkhead, with nineteen M6 nuts, welded onto the back of the seven vertical ribs.

Note also, the additional holes in the bodywork, on either side of the bulkhead, for supplementary electrical cables, pipes or hoses, to enter the engine compartment.

Any accessories could then be fitted, using custom made mounting brackets; avoiding any later haphazard drilling of holes in the bulkhead (which might penetrate the petrol tank), to accommodate self-tapping screws. About ten years later, a local VW Type 2 owner of my acquaintance, who sadly lacked this kind of foresight, somehow managed to drill three holes in the forward face of his petrol tank, when fitting second-hand motorcaravan furniture, in his Microbus. Fortunately for him, I had a second-hand petrol tank for sale!

REPLACING SLIDING DOOR SEAL WITHOUT FULLY REMOVING DOOR

by Mike Hobson, Member No. 5056

In October last year, I replaced the sliding-door seal, on my “crossover” 1972 VW Type 2. Despite being 71 years of age, I did it on my own, so younger members

should find it a doddle! The tools needed, were a wooden spatula (as used by my wife in the kitchen), a selection of screwdrivers and an axle stand.

(1) Firstly, set the height of the axle stand, at as near as possible, to the height of the underside of the door. Pieces of wooden packing might be needed.

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(2) Remove the cover plate from rear panel (covers sliding mechanism). This is where different types and lengths of screwdrivers are needed. You have to slacken the tightening bar (the screw can be difficult to get to). Once off, I drilled and tapped with the original thread right through, so can be filled with grease.

(3) You can now see the runner, about half way along is a cut-out. Line up with block on sliding mechanism and lift off rear of door and place on axle stands. Once done, presumably old seal will be out. Just hook new seal over projecting runner and then over door, move seal into position and door can be lifted back on to the runner.

(4) The wooden spatula is shaped as required and used to push the new rubber in. Adhesive can be used as required. It is a bit fiddly, but can be done. Adjustment to the door might be needed for it to shut, due to the thickness of the new rubber seal. It will eventually settle down. Job done.

P.S. I am no mechanic or engineer, just an old Joe Bloggs.

Tech Talk - The Mystery of Flirty Girtie’s, Automatic-Transmission, Reversing-Light Switch

By Clive Calvert, Member No. 6686

It was a cold, wet Christmas day, and after an enjoyable Christmas lunch with our daughter, it was time to head home. Now, as it was cold, wet and windy, we said,

“don’t bother to come out, to see us off”.

We got in the van, started her up and slipped her into reverse, but there were no reversing lights! That would not normally be a problem, but my daughter, lives down a long, dark, narrow lane, with no room to turn around, and a bend with stone walls on both sides. I began to fear for my paintwork, but what was I to do! I resorted to switching on the hazard warning lights and slowly backed up, using the flashing amber lights, to see my way.

Next day, it was time to sort out the problem. After checking the bulbs, which were all okay, I got out the Haynes manual, to find out how things work. The wiring diagram shows a switch, but not where! The manual goes into great detail, about the switch and its position on a manual gearbox, but there is no mention of a switch on the AUTOMATIC gearbox, which is what Gertie has. I crawled underneath Gertie, to inspect the automatic transmission, but there was no sign of any switch for the reversing lights, so I concluded that there must be one, somewhere inside the vehicle.

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The gear-selector lever assembly in the cab, seemed to me to be the most likely location. The Haynes manual includes a nice exploded diagram of the gear-selector lever assembly, but there is no mention of a reversing-light switch. To gain access, I needed to rip up the carpet, which I had stuck down the previous year, to stop it

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moving about. That done, I removed the cover from the selector-lever assembly, and found lots of electrical cables, but nothing to indicate their purpose.

Hence, it was time to get out my trusty test kit (see technical editor’s notes), which in my case, comprises a 25W bulb with two wires soldered on; each with crocodile clips on their ends. One of these holds a nail, that is used to probe for live connections. Crouching down on my knees between the seats, with my head touching the underside of the dashboard, it was as black as night. Despite the gloom, I found a convenient earth connection for my test lamp, but I needed to find out what was live and when. The selector-lever assembly, has two small illumination lights (also not working) and the gear lever has to be in P or N, to start the engine. I presumed there must be connections to both the light switch and the ignition switch.

With a paper pad and pen in hand, making a note of my findings should have been easy. However, being in a position with my head lower than my backside, my spectacles were sliding off my nose, so when I did finally find a live wire, the 25W test light virtually blinded me, so this investigation was going to take longer than I anticipated!

Fastened with two screws, to the lever-bracket of the gear-selector-lever assembly, is a white plastic unit (see editor’s notes) with three pairs of contacts embedded in it. On the selector-lever, is a small spring-loaded contact-bridge, which makes contact across these embedded contacts, when one moves the selector-lever between P, R or N. These contacts were dirty and/or oxidised, so the first job was to raid my wife’s make-up bag, for a long, strong emery board, with which to clean them

It turned out that my problem was caused by the contact bridge, having a very weak spring, which was just missing the reversing-lamp contacts. The switch fastening holes are slotted, so it was an easy job to reposition the unit and all is now okay. Incidentally, starting in cold, wet weather, has noticeably improved; to which I attribute having nice clean contacts. I also noticed, that when the gear-selector lever is moved between P, R & N, there is a small spark between the contacts, which must contribute to the contacts becoming dirty. So if you have a bus with automatic transmission, it might be beneficial to periodically clean these contacts.

Editor’s note - Clive has a 1989 VW Transporter T3, with a 1915 cm³ displacement petrol engine and automatic transmission.

Noting Clive’s comments, regarding the paucity of information in his Haynes manual, about the reversing-light switch, associated with automatic transmission, I checked in the following Haynes and Robert Bentley manuals, which I either possessed, or was able to borrow through the Essex County Library’s branch inter-loan facility.

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J. H. Haynes & K. F. Kinchin, VW Transporter 1700/1800, 1972 to 1974, Owners Workshop Manual, J. H. Haynes & Company Ltd., 1975, ISBN 85696-229-0.

Volkswagen of America Inc., 1968~79 Volkswagen Station Wagon/Bus Official Service Manual Type 2, Robert Bentley Publishers, 4th Edition, 1979, ISBN 0-8376-0094-4.

John S. Mead, “VW Air-Cooled Transporter, 1979 to 1982, All Models, 1584 cc & 1970 cc, Owners Workshop Manual”, Haynes Publishing Group, 1988, ISBN 0-85696-638-X

Matthew Minter & John Mead, “VW Transporter 1982 to 1990 (upto H registration) Petrol, Haynes Service & Repair Manual”, Haynes Publishing, 1998, ISBN 1-85960-452-8.

Volkswagen of America Inc., Volkswagon Vanagon Official Factory Repair Manual (VW Part No. LPV 800 146), 1980 through 1987, Gasoline & Diesel, Including Syncro & Caper, Robert Bentley Publishers, 1987, ISBN 0-8376-0359-5.

I could not find, even the vaguest information about this topic, in any of the aforementioned Haynes manuals’ chapters, devoted to either the automatic transmission or the electrical system. However, there are appropriate schematic circuit wiring diagrams, with wiring colours & terminal labels, shown in electrical system chapters of the Robert Bentley manuals, but for the 1972~79 VW Type 2, the appropriate diagram (i.e. “Supplement to Wiring Diagram A”) immediately following Page 41, of Chapter 4, would not be easily identified by the novice, as that which was sought!

Annual General MeetingStratford upon Avon Racecourse

Saturday 28 September 2013 2.00-5.00pm

Camping available, please see formal notice on page 11

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The way we were!!!!!

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Editors Note, Somehow I don’ think we would get away with publish-ing this as a fresh piece of work these days. It is good to read some bits from the archive, and we will be using these on a regular basis.

MEMBERS’ CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS

FOR SALE: Pair of “bay-window” 1971 VW Type 2 front brake calipers (recently removed from my vehicle @ £40 + £15 P&P (or buyer collects). They require refurbishment before re-use; which I am told, would cost circa £70 each. Contact Ian Crawford, Bloxham, Banbury, Oxfordshire. Tel. 01 295 - 720 812.

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FOR SALE: Tow bar, complete with 50 mm tow-ball and electrics, for a 1973~79 VW Type 2 (donor vehicle was a 1978 model) @ £30. Nearly new front bumper with no rust, for a 1973-79 VW Type 2 @ £40. Petrol tank (donor vehicle was a 1973 model), complete with fuel-gauge sender (five M5 bolt fixing | part numbers, etc: 21-250 & 211 919 051 | functional when removed ) for a 1972~73 VW Type 2 @ £50. Pictures of all items can be sent by e-mail, on request. Buyers to collect from Oxford area. Contact John Attree. Tel. 01 235 - 529 555. E-mail: [email protected]

FOR SALE: British specification, RHD, 1978 VW 1600 Type 2 Crew-Cab Pickup (five-seater), with both support frame & high-level cover and low-level “tonneau-style” cover for load area (as illustrated below), laminated front windscreen, LPG conversion, tow bar and radio-cassette player. Total recorded mileage 97,788 (new engine at 72,398). Valid MOT until October 2013. Road-taxed until May 2013. Owned 12 years and used regularly. VWT2OC valuation £10,000. Change of circumstances, sadly forces sale. Offers of circa £7,500. Contact Sue Ball. Tel. 01 444 - 461 349 (evenings & weekends only) or E-mail: [email protected] with VW T2 in e-mail subject line.

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