This thread is doubling as my member introduction, not sure if that's allowed or not.
I've owned and worked on VW's for 14 years and have been working as a VW mechanic since I turned 18.
I currently own 4 VW's. My newest is a high kilometre late 2005 1.9TDI SWB manual.
Having bought a house in need of renovation, the point has come where I can't throw construction materials into show/ vintage oriented cars anymore.
The hunt was on for a caddy, I had loan of one a year ago and loved the added room, but golf driving characteristics. Not to mention a lot of "hand me downs" from my golf will help keep costs down.
Speaking of keeping costs down, here I present the $1200 Facebook purchase I mentioned before.





so I made the drive after work to inspect the potential purchase in the rain and dark, not ideal.
It's very rough. All over generally rough and mistreated.

Love the awful shelves and concrete residue


And here is the start of why the van was cheap.

This has been previously a work fleet vehicle, and 12 months ago after developing an engine "knock", the business owner was told an engine was required. It's sat unused since.
In reality, a replacement camshaft, and oil cooler is all I currently believe need replacing. Upon further assesment I'm sure that list will grow.
This is meant to be a stock, practical, reliable van, that I'm not meant to get attached to. But I've always wanted a red caddy, and already have some ideas.
I can't believe the cult following these vans have in the UK and I love the quality of builds that breeds. I've enjoyed reading through the forum over the last week and look forward to learning here.
Tomorrow Ill start on my caddy, beginning with the most thorough cleaning it's probably had in 10 years.
Stay tuned for the chaos.
Cheers