| Hello from Worcester - | |
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+6dazdub Voyager Scooby MarcusH Tallulah Vladaria 10 posters |
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Vladaria
Cabin : Club Posts : 76 Join date : 2016-02-04
| Subject: Hello from Worcester - Tue Feb 09, 2016 12:31 pm | |
| I'm Nicky and my Hubby is Ian, I'm the new and excited owner of a third hand white Brazilian Bay! Hooray Ian is a VW Camper newbie, I've had a SplitScreen and a T25 in the past (loved em both) We nearly got lured by an older 70's bay in Blue with Zebra interior but "making it your own" is a massive part of the fun for me (and that one was all done!) Anyhoo - there's already a long list of "stuff to do" and we haven't a clue Any suggestions/advice on any of the things below will be gratefully received. URGENT STUFF TO DO:1) It hasn't been serviced for 3 years!! Can anyone recommend a garage in or near Worcester that will be able to do a full service and replace any mechanical bits that are dodgy. (not sure how long the hoses etc last on these) 2) There is major play in the steering even more than my old split screen. It's a RHD conversion from Danbury. Hubby is particularly worried by this and unless my lovely new car is to be christened "Deathtrap" it needs sorting asap. Don't know if changing to different setup e.g. new rack and pinion will solve this, or a different steering box etc He'd be interested in having power steering - can anyone here share their views? 3) We'd like any rust underneath treated then have the Waxoyl underneath refreshed (as well as inside the panels if possible) 4) Should we change the brakes to disk - is that better / possible on Brazilian Bays? Stuff to Sell:1) It came with a roof rack - we don't want it & not sure what it's worth (if anyone has any suggestions I can put it into the for sale on here) 2) Cab Bunk (not sure if this would be useful for storage or what it's worth) On the Plans:Exterior:Great news is after a 4 hour wash and light wax the body work seems pretty sound and it's only done 10.5k miles! 1) We'd like the whole exterior repainted top and bottom so want a great paint shop that knows how to take the window seals etc out (and more importantly replace them after). 2) Might want chrome bumpers and mirrors (though I think I'd prefer white) 3) Not sure if we want to swap out the steel wheels - if not then we'd want them painted and maybe whitewalls? Not sure of our options on this, could depend on the steering fix & braking options we go with. Interior:The interiors pretty neat and was done by CamperShack but we'd still like to make it our own. It has a full rock and roll bed, kitchenette inc oven, grill fridge and sink plus removable table. Mains hook up, 12v electrics & leisure battery (which needs replacing). 1) We'd like some overhead storage, inc somewhere to put the table top. 2) It would be great to have a shelf under the dash to store travel foodstuffs, drinks etc. 3) We'd like to replace the tile flooring with roll vinyl (not sure how easy it is to get the CamperShak kitchen unit out. 4) Maybe like a buddy seat/box to put our mini loo in. 5) Headlining for the rear of the van 6) Curtains. 7) Depending on costs maybe door cards to match the paint. Out ideal solution would be to drop it off to one place to do everything in the "pimping" category (or maybe both pimping and mechanics). Our thinking is the cost would be lower if we did it all in one as not so much in and outing of the units etc As you can see there are lots of thoughts going on here and we haven't even decided where to camp yet!!!! Definitely want to do Malvern as it's just up the road... Thanks for any help you can give Nic x - Attachments
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Tallulah
Cabin : Flight 011 Location : South Somerset, UK Posts : 5101 Join date : 2011-06-05
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Tue Feb 09, 2016 12:51 pm | |
| Welcome! Well that's a fair to do list, plenty to keep you busy. I would say by far the most urgent thing is to get your new toy properly serviced as that should identify anything mechanical that needs sorting. The steering should also be much improved after a service and hopefully no permanent damage has been done to the steering or suspension in the mean time. Rack and pinion will definitely sort it, as would a new Red9 setup, but neither are cheap so better to see how she drives after the service before committing. Power steering is also an option, there are two main types to choose from, but better to make sure everything is mechanically sound first. Danbury is in Yate near Bristol so not too far from you although there may be others closer. Lots of info (and opinions) on all of the above els where on the forum, just use the search box above or the keyword selection on the right. In terms of interiors, I would highly recommend getting along to a few BraziBay meet ups so you can have a nose in some kombis and get some ideas. If you're not busy on the 20th of Feb, and assuming you've found somewhere for a service by then, there will be 30 BraziBays heading for a spin around Goodwood. If you kombi isn't up for the trip you could come along in something else to meet us too, I'm sure someone will offer you a lift around the circuit! Here's a link to the thread: Kombi Trip to Goodwood ________________________________________________________________________________ www.alpinegrovetouringpark.com Twitter: @AlpineGrove Facebook: facebook.com/alpinegrovetouringpark
| | Former owners of the amazing Tallulah (2011 to 2021) Proud winners of Spikes Trophy, 2016. Freedom, in style... |
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MarcusH
Cabin : Exec 031 Location : Sheffield Posts : 814 Join date : 2011-12-08
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Tue Feb 09, 2016 1:29 pm | |
| Hello and welcome Looks very much like my to do list when I got my camper. My was a plain white tin top. Always great to meet up and copy the ideas you like from other van | |
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Scooby
Cabin : Flight 004 Location : Reading Posts : 8831 Join date : 2010-12-12
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Tue Feb 09, 2016 1:33 pm | |
| Hi & Welcome to the Forum Sounds like there will be plenty to keep you busy! Doo consider coming along to a Club event so you can see other Kombis and have a chat ________________________________________________________________________________ Proud winners of Spike's Trophy 2017 Scooby - Born To Run | |
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Voyager
Cabin : Flight 044 Location : Alderley Edge Posts : 1370 Join date : 2013-08-10
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Tue Feb 09, 2016 2:01 pm | |
| We've got both rack and pinion and power steering. I'm just about to rush out, so I'll send you a PM when I have a little more time. | |
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dazdub
Cabin : Exec 012 Location : wales Posts : 3114 Join date : 2009-10-16
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Tue Feb 09, 2016 4:56 pm | |
| Hi and welcome I have a 56 plate aircooled bay don't want power steering . Get it serviced and see how you get on it will be a bit like you split but with more power and much better brakes it has discs and servo | |
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harryhornet
Cabin : Exec 027 Location : Fair Oak, Hampshire Posts : 2849 Join date : 2012-04-19
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Tue Feb 09, 2016 5:15 pm | |
| Hi and welcome. You've got a really exciting project there! I wouldn't rush into anything at this stage. As others have said have a really good look at what owners have done, go on a couple of camping trips and test the water. Above all spend a good few evenings searching through this forum and absorbing all the information you come across. I real look forward to seeing your Kombi develop over time. | |
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Vladaria
Cabin : Club Posts : 76 Join date : 2016-02-04
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Tue Feb 09, 2016 11:55 pm | |
| Wow thanks folks. That's a really warm welcome and some great advice. So first thing is to find a great VW specialist who can service her - anyone know one near Worcester please? Tallulah - thanks for the Goodwood trip link and Danbury sugestion. We went to Danbury they were really helpful but were a little put off by the two price system (one price if it came with a bus from them, more if it didn't). Marcus - love Betsy's colour, is it a VW colour? It's gorgeous! Scooby - will definitely try to make a club event Voyager - yes please any info you have would be greatly appreciated. Nothing beats first hand use... Dazdub - think mine has drum brakes (will check again). Were any Brazilian Bays made with drums? Harryhornet - will try not to rush in (we'll except for the interior. I've been planning that for a while in my head. Lol) Anyone got a suggestion re the roof rack, should I just put it on Ebay? Does anyone have a front bunk, is it any good for storage? Ohhh so many possibilities on stuff but not a clue if it will fit.... | |
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dazdub
Cabin : Exec 012 Location : wales Posts : 3114 Join date : 2009-10-16
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 7:33 am | |
| Hi your bay will have discs front and drums rear | |
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harryhornet
Cabin : Exec 027 Location : Fair Oak, Hampshire Posts : 2849 Join date : 2012-04-19
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 7:54 am | |
| - Vladaria wrote:
- We went to Danbury they were really helpful but were a little put off by the two price system (one price if it came with a bus from them, more if it didn't).
Is this right ?? Do Danbury really charge a higher price for work they carry on a Kombi that wasn't supplied by them. | |
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Vladaria
Cabin : Club Posts : 76 Join date : 2016-02-04
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 8:20 am | |
| Dazdub - thanks that's really useful Harryhornet - that's what we were told when we got prices for paint and steering. The Danbury chap said it would be more of we weren't buying the camper from them - though he didn't say how much more and he was showing us vans to buy. (we were trying to decide on a pre-painted van etc or the one we bought and get cost comparisons) | |
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Voyager
Cabin : Flight 044 Location : Alderley Edge Posts : 1370 Join date : 2013-08-10
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 9:09 am | |
| - Vladaria wrote:
- Dazdub - thanks that's really useful
Harryhornet - that's what we were told when we got prices for paint and steering. The Danbury chap said it would be more of we weren't buying the camper from them - though he didn't say how much more and he was showing us vans to buy. (we were trying to decide on a pre-painted van etc or the one we bought and get cost comparisons) Since Danbury are effectively a factory operation, I suppose this is the difference between ordering a factory option and a retrofit option. When I have called Danbury to ask for a quote on an upgrade, they have never asked me whether they supplied the van in the first place. | |
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Vladaria
Cabin : Club Posts : 76 Join date : 2016-02-04
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 9:26 am | |
| Makes sense...although we were looking at their "pre-loved" range (so the work would be the same). Ahhh well their prerogative, they were really friendly and helpful. | |
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Tallulah
Cabin : Flight 011 Location : South Somerset, UK Posts : 5101 Join date : 2011-06-05
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 9:27 am | |
| - Voyager wrote:
- Vladaria wrote:
- Dazdub - thanks that's really useful
Harryhornet - that's what we were told when we got prices for paint and steering. The Danbury chap said it would be more of we weren't buying the camper from them - though he didn't say how much more and he was showing us vans to buy. (we were trying to decide on a pre-painted van etc or the one we bought and get cost comparisons) Since Danbury are effectively a factory operation, I suppose this is the difference between ordering a factory option and a retrofit option. When I have called Danbury to ask for a quote on an upgrade, they have never asked me whether they supplied the van in the first place. That's exactly right, the profit they make on the vehicle sale means the upgrade can be much closer to 'cost price', but for a retro fit the upgrade itself needs to provide the profit otherwise what's the point. The price they charge for a service is the same for everyone. ________________________________________________________________________________ www.alpinegrovetouringpark.com Twitter: @AlpineGrove Facebook: facebook.com/alpinegrovetouringpark
| | Former owners of the amazing Tallulah (2011 to 2021) Proud winners of Spikes Trophy, 2016. Freedom, in style... |
Last edited by Tallulah on Wed Feb 10, 2016 10:40 am; edited 1 time in total | |
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harryhornet
Cabin : Exec 027 Location : Fair Oak, Hampshire Posts : 2849 Join date : 2012-04-19
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 10:04 am | |
| - Tallulah wrote:
- Voyager wrote:
- Vladaria wrote:
- Dazdub - thanks that's really useful
Harryhornet - that's what we were told when we got prices for paint and steering. The Danbury chap said it would be more of we weren't buying the camper from them - though he didn't say how much more and he was showing us vans to buy. (we were trying to decide on a pre-painted van etc or the one we bought and get cost comparisons) Since Danbury are effectively a factory operation, I suppose this is the difference between ordering a factory option and a retrofit option. When I have called Danbury to ask for a quote on an upgrade, they have never asked me whether they supplied the van in the first place. That's exactly right, the profit they make on the vehicle sale means the upgrade can be much closer to 'cost price, but for a retro fit the upgrade itself needs to provide the profit otherwise what's the point.
The price they charge for a service is the same for everyone. That makes sense. I understand now. | |
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MarcusH
Cabin : Exec 031 Location : Sheffield Posts : 814 Join date : 2011-12-08
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 12:10 pm | |
| - Vladaria wrote:
Marcus - love Betsy's colour, is it a VW colour? It's gorgeous!
It's a fiat/Lancia colour called Turchese festival The fella who did the paint job was going to ring me when he opened the tin to make sure it was the right colour but loved it on the van when he had finished I still love it and I think it suits the van. I would never choose a colour like that for a normal car. I always seem to go for dark grey | |
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AbsintheKombi
Cabin : Exec 013 Location : Leyland, Lancs Posts : 5654 Join date : 2011-07-25
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 3:55 pm | |
| Welcome Vladaria.
A few of us have Blogs about our trips. They might give you some ideas about where to go and also about the Club events.
Mine is here: www.C13MPR.com ________________________________________________________________________________ Absinthe makes the heart grow fonder
Blog: C13MPR
Finalist in the Caravan Club Caravanner of the Year Competition 2016
Star Kombi Winner 2015
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Scooby
Cabin : Flight 004 Location : Reading Posts : 8831 Join date : 2010-12-12
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 7:22 pm | |
| Here's the link to the Scooby blog too!
Scooby Blog ________________________________________________________________________________ Proud winners of Spike's Trophy 2017 Scooby - Born To Run | |
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Tallulah
Cabin : Flight 011 Location : South Somerset, UK Posts : 5101 Join date : 2011-06-05
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 8:01 pm | |
| ...and here's Tallulah's: Tallulah's Travels ________________________________________________________________________________ www.alpinegrovetouringpark.com Twitter: @AlpineGrove Facebook: facebook.com/alpinegrovetouringpark
| | Former owners of the amazing Tallulah (2011 to 2021) Proud winners of Spikes Trophy, 2016. Freedom, in style... |
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Skytiger
Cabin : Exec 008 Location : Central Scotland Posts : 1792 Join date : 2010-09-04
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 8:14 pm | |
| - harryhornet wrote:
- Vladaria wrote:
- We went to Danbury they were really helpful but were a little put off by the two price system (one price if it came with a bus from them, more if it didn't).
Is this right ?? Do Danbury really charge a higher price for work they carry on a Kombi that wasn't supplied by them. Yep. We were charged an additional £1000 for a retro fit (even though our bus was originally supplied and imported by Danbury but bought second hand!) | |
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Skytiger
Cabin : Exec 008 Location : Central Scotland Posts : 1792 Join date : 2010-09-04
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 8:20 pm | |
| Hello and welcome! Looking forward to seeing how your bus progresses, brings back happy memories of our blank canvas WX56AOP! Have a look at the thread 'Stripping Time' on the right hand menu, it tracks everything (most things ) we've done to our bus so far. It is worthwhile trying to go to a meet up and see other peoples mods and reasoning behind their choices to help you make an informed decision. Enjoy your transformation! | |
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Bumble
Cabin : Exec 049 Location : Hampshire Posts : 1470 Join date : 2014-09-03
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Wed Feb 10, 2016 10:09 pm | |
| Welcome ! I would echo about waiting a bit for the interiors until you have mooched around a show or a club event so you can see the vans side by side and see what you like and cherry pick. You might prefer the awning of one and the curtains of another. If you cant make Goodwood can you make Volksworld at Sandown Park in April? P ( hubby)reccomends Litesteer power steering and Paul Brand for services. Nearer you there is Bromsgrove who do interiors who trade at events and have portfolios to browse through. You can turn up at these shows in ordinary cars if your van isnt roadworthy yet. There is nothing to beat having a nose in our vans when we are camping side by side or just meeting up for a day out even if its just getting ideas about accessories of what to buy or what isnt necessary. I've bought stuff I really dont use. We also have a Facebook group for photos and chats. Good luck! Monica | |
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harryhornet
Cabin : Exec 027 Location : Fair Oak, Hampshire Posts : 2849 Join date : 2012-04-19
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Thu Feb 11, 2016 9:46 am | |
| - Bumble wrote:
- I've bought stuff I really don't use.
I find this very difficult to believe !! | |
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Scooby
Cabin : Flight 004 Location : Reading Posts : 8831 Join date : 2010-12-12
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Vladaria
Cabin : Club Posts : 76 Join date : 2016-02-04
| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - Sun Feb 14, 2016 4:13 pm | |
| - MarcusH wrote:
It's a fiat/Lancia colour called Turchese festival...loved it on the van when he had finished I still love it and I think it suits the van. I would never choose a colour like that for a normal car. I always seem to go for dark grey Yep vans seem to do defy the colour laws don't they- pastel or brights they always seem to look am-a-zing! - Skytiger wrote:
- Have a look at the thread 'Stripping Time' on the right hand menu, it tracks everything (most things ) we've done to our bus so far. Enjoy your transformation!
I read the whole thread from start to finish - really, really enjoyed it - Thank you - Bumble wrote:
- If you cant make Goodwood can you make Volksworld at Sandown Park in April? P ( hubby) recommends Litesteer power steering and Paul Brand for services. Good luck!
Monica Can't make the 20th but will try for April - where's Paul Brand is it near Worcester? Heard there's a good place near Hereford and one near Malvern (just don't know who they are yet, lol) Thank you all who posted their blogs etc- lots of research there! | |
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| Subject: Re: Hello from Worcester - | |
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| Hello from Worcester - | |
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