I Bought An Abandoned Mercedes 308D Motorhome And Will Be Restoring It… But Will It Drive Home?..

Another project for my ever growing collection which I’ve saved from a previous location i filmed... Today I’m saving a 1987 Mercedes 308D Motorhome which has been parked up for a long long time… sadly It Is going to need a fair amount of work to bring It back up to a usable Standard. But work has already started so stay tuned for progress videos coming soon!…
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#mercedesmotorhome #classiccar #barnfind #barnfinds #cargraveyard #abandonedcars #abandonedclassiccars #scrapyard #exploring #urbex #abandonedscrapyard #rarecars #classic #barnfinds #thebeardedexplorer

[@jch2211]

I am just starting out at abandoned exploring and with so many projects Colin I am starting at yours. These projects need documenting just in case they don't get done.

[@lorigibbons2732]

@thebeardedexplorer I'm looking forward to seeing the restoration of this vehicle. I've always wanted to do something like that. I always said, I have time. Don't believe it, time is gone. So I'm going to live vicariously through you.🙂🙂

[@tstuart7333]

How the hell did that pass MOT approximately 3 weeks ago? most of 1 wheel arch was missing and the strut structure missing.

[@janineleahy7329]

Hi the kettle is fine it prob works all you got do wash the kettle it be good to go

[@kevvywevvywoo]

Foster & Day were considered an upmarket coachbuilder in their 'day' and made a few quite large american-style motorhomes. In fact their claim to fame (at the time) was building a made-to-order motor caravan for Jimmy Saville. I'm not sure they'd have that in their brochures these days if they were still trading.

[@JaysElectronicTinkerShack]

nice one my boss had one of these but his was a straight diesel it wouldnt do more than 45 unless u went down a hill wiht the wind behind it u think its slow now wait till its laden with all the camping gear pmsl water is always a nightmare on these

[@NoahClay6]

That is awesome you got to take that Mercedes and save it! Looking forward to seeing the progress of the restoration love those old diesels they are great engines. Great video keep it up.👍

[@burnzy3210]

given the extortionate prices of used campers, i'd love to know what you paid for that

[@mattwestby1169]

Just come across your channel and watched you rescue that Mercedes motorhome.... What a project, can't wait to see your progress. Just subscribed as well 👍😁.

[@fhwolthuis]

Great stuff, Colin! 👌🏼

[@redneckbryon]

I find it funny how you guys call vacuuming, hoovering. Definitely needs the batteries, checked or replaced.

[@Tony-zt3zy]

Looking forward to see what you do with it I hope you show everything from start to finish? Some of us here in the states sometimes call that the shagging wagon LOL stay safe.

[@gerrittates7195]

Ye have to rip all the cladding off the walls ,water coming in everywhere ,need a lot off Kitt lol

[@sciencebox180]

Lived in worst, that rot in the rear will be a challenge to strip and replace

[@colinbleach9390]

Nice love this

[@Brucecarmaintence71]

Hi Mate, hope you are doing good, I used to work for a Mercedes Benz commercial dealership just outside Edinburgh for 25 years, in the parts dept, 1992 to 2017, I know these vans inside out, the 308D was a fantastic old van, pretty much bulletproof tbh, once you get it all serviced it should run forever, looking forward to seeing your next video on it. Best wishes Bruce.

[@peterthomason6088]

Great content but how on earth has that passed its MOT? Maybe the tester was charmed by the 17th century tapestry cab trim

[@hectortheerector]

Don't matter as long as its michanicaly sound it gets a pass.

[@robosmond8235]

How did it get thru an mot with that rust?

[@essbee8028]

With a “friendly” mot inspector 😀😀😀

[@ricknick74]

Bent mot 100% 😂

[@truckerdim]

It was m.o.ted in a very dark cave lol

[@TheBeardedExplorer]

I never had it done the guy did.. 😅 don’t worry I’m not going anywhere with it like that until it’s all done!

[@truckerdim]

@@TheBeardedExplorer haha he must still have the old style m.o.ts you could buy of ebay all ready stamped lol

[@davercs]

What a great project but can't understand how it passed a mot not with that amount of rust

[@peterobertson2086]

He said it WENT for an mot, tho didn't say that it passed it.

[@oliward5330]

@@peterobertson2086 yes he did say it passed @11 mins in the vid god knows how with that rot the guy must be blind

[@briansnail7362]

i think you are ment to warm the glow plugs first ,the orange button with a curly symbol on for about 10 seconds

[@kevvywevvywoo]

the glow plugs on these are automatic, just turn the ignition on, wait for the light to go out then start.

[@batesy536]

Used to drive a 308d flatbed with over 400000 miles on it, they were very reliable motors, used to start off in 2nd gear if no weight on the back coz that 1st gear is very short, good look with the renovation.

[@mandymoo7406]

My 307 only went in first when loaded,I got rid of it because as seen here it was a liability on motorways as waggons came up so fast on it,great truck lovely ride on the big tyres and first time i drove it i steared in too fast as the driving wheels are below you rather than in front,soon got used to it though,got mine chep because it needed spill timing and one could do it,wouldn't go back unless I lived in upper scotyland

[@andrewhill400]

I used to have a Merc 410d. It was a John Lewis Luton van that had been turned into a stealth camper long before stealth campers were even a thing. It was massive and slow but always got me where I was going. Once did Glasgow to Newquay at 50mph. Took 2 days but I loved it. The dash, dogleg box and giving it a rev to get the dash lights off takes me right back. Great vans as long as you are not in a hurry.

[@wingingit3071]

i now live in my ex john lewis sprinter luton van, built out the back to my on desires and kept it as stealth as possible from the rear and the drivers side ::)

[@barrycaldwell5461]

410 was a rear twin wheel if i remember right wasn't it

[@andrewhill400]

@@barrycaldwell5461 yeah it was indeed. 2.9 5 cylinder with twin wheels at the back.

[@shantidog1101]

Good luck with your projects. Top tip,sell all the other unfinished projects and nail 1 properly. Don't be that bloke like some of my pals with many unfinished motors ect,it never works out. 1 project,complete commitment !

[@robertmills2054]

I hope you didn't throw away the grey plastic sheet with a bead down one side, as that clips on under the door between the wheels to stop a through draft into the awning that was in the large bag.

[@TheBeardedExplorer]

Nope still got it 😁

[@philthymiller]

Do you have the address of the garage where it passed its MOT? They could become my new best mates! 😂🤣😂🤣

[@Carol......]

Looking forward to seeing what you do with it, I love seeing these things being fixed up. Wishing you many happy years and miles in it Colin 😘😊

[@dotherightthingbro]

Have you ever wondered how collections like these happen.? Well you see it’s from good intentions of getting the vehicles back on the road again just like Colin is doing. They in turn move on from on car to the next and not quite finishing it off because they have found the one they really wanted. One day someone will be exploring Colins collection of old rusty cars and telling viewers how heartbreaking it is seeing all these cars sitting and turning into dust. The viewers will be wondering why too. So is Colin turning into one of his finds lol ?

[@comfortouch]

There's a TV show in the States called 'Hoarders' that is full of people with good intentions.

[@clairefunnell8481]

That's neat that you bought the camper. I didn't hear any honking when you were driving back. Good luck to you and hope we see everything you do on it. I'd like that.

[@loyndsy]

Do as much work from the inside so you don't kink the van outer skin, great project, should be good. We must be mental I'm doing a fiat Ducato van just now for a mate and it's as rotten as a carrot so I'm in the zone covered in spatter burns and rust in me gusset ooer Mrs.

[@MistyLaneLoveConquersALL]

Love it can't wait to see you working on this 😊

[@jonbell2305]

I just done a horse box for a lady I changed the roof to a aluminium roof and put 2 skylights in. But they have a bullet proof engine. Your lucky the gearbox has 5 speed most have 4. Good luck with project 👍

[@CCDzine]

I just bought a 1986 Komfort 30ft RV for $500. Essentially the same as yours, different bed/bath layout but nearly identical, from engine down to cabinet trim and seating. The two brands must have been built in the same factory. I will follow along.

[@davidmolyneaux5062]

Just watching this and you comment the mot was about 3wks old, yet it's got severe structural damage to the front inner wing around the suspension (5.02 onwards)........

[@johnnyross3340]

Good luck with your new project... Don't know how it got an M.O.T 3 weeks before too many holes around . But will be a fun project to keep tabs on

[@endorfun22]

Anyone else having problems with playback on this video? Seems to be really choppy and stuttery.

[@valleystaff7031]

1st is a crawler gear. U just drive it like a 4 speed using 2 to 5

[@letmeoffthisplanet6208]

I used to have a 308d flat bed and hauled across the country with it. Excellent motors but watch for timing chain rattle and oil pump issues,retaining nut on the oil pump used to snap.

[@wrightfamily4373]

Good luck just bought myself a talbot express it does 50. It’s a 1.9 non turbo non power steering. if your lucky on a downhill you can reach 60 if to push it

[@davidpilgrim5664]

Just an idea but if like you said you will be doing videos on your projects why not call it Bearded Restorer?.

[@jonnysprojects6549]

Use second as your first gear "first" was a granny gear for steep grades heavy loads ect 👌

[@johnathanrowley2707]

Nice to see it rescued and going to a good home

[@darrenmeears3912]

Awesome moterhome I just wish I was brave enough to tackle such a project it's going to be great when it's done 👌👍

[@janineleahy7329]

All you got to do just bleach and hot water the tote box wash bowl the trays were still in the packet you keeping the toilet you would clean that with bleach that been used I would keep them did you keep the gas stove and mirco wave

[@haroldsteptoe4456]

A lot of blasphemous language but nice camper hope you get it done and have a lot of fun with it

[@elliswade2520]

Me and my boyfriend went to view this about a month ago, but it was to much of project for us. Good luck with it :)) least we can watch the updates with it on your channel 😂

[@haydnbroughton148]

Really looking forward to seeing this project through to it's restoration colin.

[@ronturner5560]

ps almost forgot, always good to change the air in the tires when a vehicle has been standing for some time.

[@RWL2012]

you could have changed down on the dual carriageway, it's an 80 horsepower (or whatever it is with the turbo) house... F reg is 88-89 btw

[@tonysutton6559]

Start with ripping out the rotten ceiling and sorting the skylight. It's easy enough to do and will be a big morale booster (plus the damp, musty smells will go away). I'm looking forward to watching the camper being rescued.

[@dixy2406]

Brilliant mate nice find but how the f-ck was it moted in that rusty state.??

[@ronturner5560]

In this situation being first time drive, always check the horn 😉to be sure.

[@leehardy367]

must be a dodgy mot with all that rust bud did you check it out good luck tho fella you have a job and a half there mate

[@garysmith1206]

How did that pass its MOT.

[@charlietabone6162]

You brought an old piece of headache been there done that believe me not worth restore one of them headaches good luck

[@jeanbanks7301]

I don't know how that's even road worthy, and the tyres, did you even pump them up, amazed it made it home.

[@StevenArnott77]

Just loved it.take me back when I brought a motor I loved and it needed so much doing to it.triumph gt6….can’t wait for the next installment..great🎉🎉😊

[@noonehere1793]

For ever 1 mm of rust you can see there are 100 mm you can’t see…….plan accordingly. I loved my old mercedes !

[@lizstevenson7801]

Congratulations! You are like a kid in a toy factory with this one. Good luck, may you have years of travel in the future in this, well done. 💕🇦🇺

[@grahamx8623]

Got your work cut out with that one. That 1980's beige/peach decor won't be back in fashion in our lifetime. Good luck, can't wait for the next instalment.

[@mick0846]

You must have the most understanding Mrs ever! Ha

[@EddieG1888]

You can tell a lot about someone's character by how they treat little beasties like that spider.😊

[@anthonybrowne4022]

Colin Well done getting the old girl home looking forward to seeing it all done all ready for next summer 👍👏👏

[@edwardsfamily6184]

You can still get all the panels and front wings and seals for this campervan new my grandad had one of these he got all the parts for his from euro car parts online m8 very cheap cos with Mercedes all the panels are bolt on bolt off parts

[@kindelvanterpool1417]

Man that needs to be Saved in deed. Thats Good to go exporing Mate just get clothes, Food, and Fuel. Thumbs up👍 keep um coming mate.👍

[@pennyblackstamp]

Congrats Colin all the best fixing her up, good to see you in your element. Love your channel 🚐⛽ always interesting and fun, take care 🌟

[@stomlinson32ify]

Can tell how slow it was, nothing had fallen over in the back 😂

[@raynaknierim9277]

Colin, you tickle me when you get so excited about this vehicle.😂 I bet it needs more than WD-40. I bet it lost some rust along the way. 😂😅. Thanks for sharing.

[@danhavard9205]

You will never save that peace of crap.. but it suites you as is... perfect for you!

[@terrycainarmit1982]

I know your pain mate, I have a smiley luton transit that’s been turned into a camper, only does 60 but happier at 55 lol. Will make a good camper that, love the look of those old mercs 👍

[@Hadesdetecting]

Did the same (ish) last weekend in my dads motorhome he rescued,didn't go over 55mph for 200miles while the engine is still being run in.Great fun,looking forward to updates on the channel

[@oomloos]

You need a upgraded injection pump to make that turbo work o/

[@Aretec]

Who MOT that? Stevie wonder 🤔

[@lindseykaine-walley6339]

It was nice to see you actually take one away home with you! I really loved this episode you were so happy 😊 and we were happy watching it!! Looking forward to an update on your project.

[@lauramusser4973]

Don't push the start button until the lights are off.

[@MarkTheVicar]

Nice find, if things continue as they are I may find myself living in one....interesting times

[@maisiestretch6340]

i would of left it where it was. fair play to you

[@davidgeater5]

That’s a dampervan not a camper van scrap it

[@Leepatrick3868]

Hi Colin , loving the old Merc camper , just a thought but if you want to tidy up the wooden bed slats , brushing them with either boiled linseed or danish oil is less time consuming than varnish and gives a good protective finish . 👍

[@jamesherrick4927]

I did my apprenticeship on this shape merc van really reliable saw loads off these with 6, 7, 8 hundred thousand on clock. My dad had a 308d panel van which had a turboed 5 cylinder in, that would sit at 80 mph on motorway allday long. The gear stick tower bolts to the top off the gearbox on these's and there are 3 arms go on side off the gear box if you line all the arms up on the tower end with long 5mm allen key and adjust arms on gearbox end it should change gear smoother they are common for coming loose on gear box side too they are also common for jamming in 2 gears at the same time. There is a way to turn the fuel pump up with the round valve on top of the fuel pump too but it's being a while since I played with one its a atmospheric valve. If you intend keeping it I would seriously think about putting the 5 cylinder engine in if it has not already if you can find one. There have alot better power output for the motor home versions. I think the turbos are only low pressure turbos too not like the ones we have now I could be wrong any intake leak and they stop working just make nosie lol. You can also get a power steering conversion for them too I did loads where I worked. Good find mate they are hard to find now especially still running. Good luck with the restoration.

[@Dubslag]

Mod the head gasket then push up the boost. It’s a good engine apart from the head gaskets

[@marcdelaunay1]

I love the Axminster carpet on the floors and doors hahahahaha. Awesome mate!😂😂😂👍✌️

[@Lottatherotta]

How did it pass an MOT with that rot?

[@SkylarkCamperAdventures]

It had an MOT recently! 😮

[@thetravellingtokers6385]

Yeahhhhhh👍🏻😎👊🏻💚🔥🔥🔥🔥💨💨 BIG RESPECT bro👊🏻

[@RustyRoseAdventures]

Just subscribed, I'm currently welding up one of these too, but a luton box which I will convert. Lovely vans! the battery light is normal to stay on until you rev but not the brake light, also there is no handbrake light. About your starting issue, my mate had a similar problem and it was the main earth had snapped clean off from the gearbox so give that a look at 👍 look forward to seeing progress. Ive got lots of videos on my channel that may (or may not😂) be helpful 👍

[@johnjohn8836]

Pleased for you.. BUT You said it’s MOT how did that happen

[@TheBeardedExplorer]

I asked the guy I bought it from the same question… 😅

[@revivify5967]

Love it, going to be a cozy camper when you're finished with it 👍

[@johndix6101]

If you leave two weeks before your due at a camp site you'll be OK 😆 🤣 😂

[@gdfggggg]

Imagine if it didn’t have a turbo😮. I would suggest you check it’s operation. The wastegate might be stuck open or something similar. It may not have an inter cooler fitted to cool the air going in to the combustion chambers. Good luck.

[@gdfggggg]

I saw the love heart and thought I was a special one but then noticed everyone gets a love heart 😭😄

[@monkeymagic4555]

Sorry to hear you officially hate yourself...Sad times :( lol

[@chromatophore881]

I love it. There is something special about campervans and caravans and this one is going to be lovely when it is done. Did that £30 worth of diesel manage to get you to the next petrol station?

[@timbird5494]

That was different to normal great video and that will make a great camper 👍👍

[@davidgeater5]

No way that past with that rot

[@garethnorwood2084]

Can't wait to see the updates on the camper 👍

[@agentofficerthomasa.porter107]

Just Discovered Your Channel. Well, A Euro Restoration Find. Just Realize Were Only Human & Can Only Accomplish One Event At A Time In Life. There Are So Many RV's Around The Globe🌎Sit'n & Waiten To Be Brought Back To Life. Did You Put Any New Petro⛽In The Critter? Do The Tires Have The Right Amount Of Air Pressure? Did You Check The Oil Stick & Anti-Freeze In The Radiator & Brake Fluid & Trasmission Fluid Stick? Or Is This Staged & You Have Done All This Before Starting Up? You Sure Throw Away Good Items That You Could Recyle & Use. Wait Until You Start Buying All New, It Adds Up Mate. Live & Learn. What Did You Pay For The Used Mercedes 87? Are You Making A Good Living From KZbin? Wish You The Best. always, Tommy🤠

[@angelannbrent18]

That’s so nice, i want also a car like that,so i can travel anytime i want,but not now maybe in the future. Congrats sis🎉

[@TheNismo777]

Clearly needs a engine upgrade! modern hybrid turbo could do miracles.

[@jordanoneill82]

why can't i watch this in lower quality!? not everybody has internet strong enough to maintain a 4k HD connection.... 👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎👎

[@scottburnside3218]

love ur channel man..if ur near my area give me a shout to go exploring I'm on fb and will keep it quiet due to respect

[@KDBBAR]

Mate love your videos and passion for cars. One criticism, quite a few things you threw out could be what a people need, or could have gone to a charity shop rather than end up in landfill. Seriously not bringing bad vibs, just a thought.