Camper Vans Body Work
This guide is based on VW Campers 1968-1979 model. Also known as Bay window Camper or Type 2s.
Now extremely popular the Camper Van has increased in value year on year just like its smaller sister the VW Beetle.
Guide of Places to look for Rust or Rot on Volkswagen Campers 1968-79 Models. This list is not an exhaustive list but the MAIN Areas to look for when thinking of buying a Camper Van.
Front Scuttle Panel - The Panel at both bottom corners of the front windscreen. This area is a water trap and often rusts from the inside out. Look out for tell tale signs of Body filler that has been bodged in to cover/fill holes.
Front Wheel Arches - Both front wheel arches are also prone to rusting. These rust from underneath aswell as the outside. Be careful to examine the outer for signs of body filler.
Rear Corner Panels - The rear corners also act as a water trap and are a very common rust area. These are fairly inexpensive and eay to replace.
Inner and Outer Sills - Both Sills inner and outers rust. The outer sill is easy to replace the inner sills are a right pain to replace.
Outriggers and Jacking Points - All these need checking throughly. I dont believe anyone anymore would consider using the original Jacking points, But the are considered structure by MOT Testers and need to be rot free.
Inner Floor Panels - This can be a big problem on camper with a sink fitted. Small leaks over a period of 30+ years can wreak havoc with the floorpan. So make sure you left up all carpet to check for rot.
Battery Tray - This panel inside the engine bay is also very prone to rust, especially if the camper van has had a leaky battery at some stage. Check the opposite side to the Battery also and this may have rotted through.
The above are a few areas on a VW Camper that Need to be checked for rust and rot. Unfortunatley there are also numerous other areas that can be prone to rust. The best moto when buying a camper is always to look at a few before buying, Take someone that has a camper and Never take cash on the first visit. Come away and have a think first.
