THE ENGINE IS IN
Fashioning an engine hoist, out of a few lollipop sticks and some gaffer tape I set too on getting the weighty 2.0litre lump hoisted back into the bus. After just 3/4 hour and a bit of sweat I had it bolted in with just the need for reconnection of the wiring loom, and a replacement exhaust.
The old exhaust had seen better days and was fouling the rear panel anyway so off to Bluebird Customs ( www.bluebird-type2.co.uk) where I got one of their great single tail pipe stainless exhausts. Bolting on of new shiny kit seemed wrong though, to an engine that looked so unloved. Out it had to come for a proper cleanup and some detailing using Frost's rough casting spray paints before going back in with a new Just Kampers Engine tinware seal (www.justkampers.com).
See the progress in full in the Summer issue of Camper&Bus and check back as I'll be posting regular blog updates over the coming weeks.
Have your say!
Latest comments
June 28 12:38
Paul McElvenny
Hello Neil,
I own a 1983 watercooled Devon Moonraker with a 1.9 DG petrol engine, 5 speed manual. I've had the camper since 1997 and the family has had a lot of fun using it for day trips and camping in the UK and abroad.
Unfortunatley,The last couple of years have seen it idle and it's condition has deteriorated.It needs some bodywork repairs and a full respray, with fibreglass repairs to the roof, around the skylight vent.
So, I'm seeking to give it a new lease of life, It's single colour VW timor beige with original transfers, I'm looking to keep it almost original but with a touch of "surf bus" to keep my two boys happy (Ages 12yrs and 9yrs) . Any ideas you and the team may have on external and internal styling etc., whether used on your bus or not would be appreciated.
I look forward to following the progress on your bus project both on blogs and in the mag.
I'm interested to see how you go about it, suppliers you use (with details and costs if possible) and the end result.
Great mag and good to see a project on a bus so similar to mine.
Many Thanks Paul.