Grateful Dead Music Forum

Fellow Kinders,

I have had the good fortune to purchase a 1977 VW Westy. I am completely psyched because i have wanted one of these since i was 15. I want to make sure this thing is in tip top shape for the summer season. Does anyone know a an honest guy in the tri-state NY area who works on these things and can make sure my new ride is going to keep me on tour this summer.

1960strat wrote:Fellow Kinders,

I have had the good fortune to purchase a 1977 VW Westy. I am completely psyched because i have wanted one of these since i was 15. I want to make sure this thing is in tip top shape for the summer season. Does anyone know a an honest guy in the tri-state NY area who works on these things and can make sure my new ride is going to keep me on tour this summer.

Please leave room for us in the van dude

Dave,

Make sure you register and check in here as well....lots of kind bus folks...

http://www.thesamba.com/vw/


happy camping!

we need pics

Is it true bypass?

I used to be way into bugs, but a guy that I did a lot of my car work with had 2 buses, so I knew my way around them pretty well back in the day. However, I sold my last bug in 1991 and haven't done any work on them since (I turned to classic Corvettes). Also, I don't remember ever working on a bug that was later than about '72, so I don't know anything about post '74 exhaust systems. Given that disclosure, I would be willing to be your "inspector of last resort" if you can't find anyone better, and if the bus is reasonably close to me. The Samba is a great resource though, I'm optimistic that you can find a more qualified inspector. Also, if you give me a town, I still know a guy in the NY/CT area that is way into bugs, but mostly older stuff from the late '50s and early '60s. If he doesn't know buses, maybe he can steer us to someone who does. Here in NJ, there are a few clubs that are still active too. If you can give me a better idea of location, I may be able to get you a contact there too.

Good luck! I have always wanted a bus from the '66-'68 era.

volkswagen logo must be replaced by a stealie!!

i love american cars too

May sound odd...Try Freccia Brothers in Greenwich, CT. Ask for Skip Freccia...totally fair, honest and they know VW's better than anyone. Been in biz forever.
246 West Putnam Avenue Greenwich, CT 06830-5242. (203) 869-2334

I've had a couple of buses...
YOU are going to be the honest guy to work on it. You dont just turn the key and go... First off you need John Muir's 'How To Keep Your Volkswagon Alive Forever". It is an incredible read, has amazing hand drawn pics and is a philosophy book as well.

Just watch out for the rust. Make sure the frame under the bellypan is in tact. It may not be worth purchasing if not. There is a great place for parts in PA. I think its www.thebusdepot.com or something like that. They have mailorder everything. Also make sure your steering box is in tact.
And most importantly HAVE FUN!!!