Introducing my VW T3 Syncro Caravelle GL
8 de noviembre de 2016
Fresh from Tarragona, I’d like to introduce you to my VW T3 Syncro Caravelle GL so you can see its condition and features.
Make: Volkswagen
Model: T3 Syncro Caravelle GL
Engine: WBX 2.1 DJ 112 cv
Year of manufacture: 1988
Type: 255 4AC
Colour: Dove Blue Metallic – LH5U
Factory-fitted extras: ABS, electric windows, heated seats, power steering, sunroof, front central locking, tow
bar Seating capacity: 7
Gearbox type: AKG
Gearbox and rear differential code: AKG
Front differential code: AKH
Gear ratios: 1G = 3.78 / 2G = 2.06 / 3G = 1.225 / 4G = 0.85 / G-G = 6.03 / R-G = 6.03 | Nom = 4.57 | Ratio = 32:7
Condition of the VW T3 Syncro Caravelle GL
The van isn’t in great condition, but this is in line with the asking price. Besides, as I’ve already said, it suits me quite well as I like it to need work done – I enjoy the restoration process. The more run-down it is, the cheaper it’s supposed to be, and therefore the lower the initial outlay. Although my experience with the Mini has already shown me that the cheaper you buy it and the worse the condition of the vehicle, the more you’ll end up investing later on. So, in the long run, it isn’t cost-effective to buy a vehicle in this condition (provided you’re looking at it from the perspective of making a profit through a possible future sale). That’s not my situation, so for me, it’s perfect.
Condition of the bodywork
The first thing that catches the eye is the bodywork paintwork. You can see how the exterior has been very poorly repainted over the original colour. Unsanded filler, interior trim and window seals painted over because they weren’t masked off… in short, a disaster.
The good news is that the bodywork itself appears to be in good condition. It only has a hole in the rear right wheel arch and a cut-out section in the rear panel. The underbody looks very good and there’s no sign of any structural damage. The sliding door has been repaired and has quite a few dents; I’m not sure whether it would be better to look for a new door.
Mechanical condition
As for the mechanics, I’ve found a front differential that’s been drained due to a breakage, and the viscous coupling was handed over inside a cardboard box. The driveshaft isn’t fitted but comes with a receipt for its balancing.
The exhaust system is in poor condition, but after test-driving the van, it doesn’t seem to affect its performance. It has also recently passed its MOT.
The engine sounds fine and hasn’t given us any problems (apart from a slight rise in temperature) during the journey.
The tyres, fitted to the 14-inch steel rims, need replacing; they have hardly any tread left and are strictly for road use.
As for the engine, although it’s very dirty, it sounds and runs quite well. At first glance, it’s clear it needs work: it shows signs of having had coolant leaks, hoses that are on their last legs, and electrical cables that are almost petrified. On the other hand, I can see that the distributor cap and spark plug leads have been replaced.
Interior of the VW T3 Syncro Caravelle GL
The interior is complete, with two rows of seats, and the front seats have armrests and are heated.
The sunroof and tow bar are two extras that add to its value. It also has ABS, electric windows (one of which doesn’t work), front central locking and central locking throughout.
The panels are cracked, the sunshades look rather shabby, the seats are dirty, the headlining has holes in it and the carpet is filthy… in other words, a real gem 🙂
I’ve also posted about it (and I’ll update the information whenever I can) on: