Top 10 Things to Consider When Buying A Vintage Volkswagen!

[@darthbuster]

Do you have room/space to store and work on it? What level of restoration can you realistically handle (roadster-ration or all the way to complete frame-off)? Do you want to enjoy it right away or spend years getting it back on the road? What amount of "POD's" are you willing to correct?

[@VWLifeVW]

these are all good!

[@scottyrocks126]

Yes, knowing what you ultimately want and what you can do yourself are very important factors, afaic. Is it better to buy a car for a relatively cheap price that needs a lot of work, or a more finished car for more money that will be on the road sooner? How much time can you devote to it? The idea here is that after all repairs are said and done, you could spend just about the same amount of money either way, except that with a project that is less all-encompassing, you'll be driving it sooner, sometimes much sooner, especially if you are working in it yourself. We don't all have a crew. :)

[@jillianvanliew]

That 2nd set of eyes/phone a friend is a GOOD ONE!!

[@VWLifeVW]

glad you think so Jillian :)

[@VWVida]

Definitely know when to walk away. I was considering an early Bay once, seller had glued those bamboo mats all around trying to hide rust on floors, front doors wouldn’t close right. He was pushing the new brm wheels and tires. I walked away. Anyway, two weeks later, I found my 7/70 Bay with current tittle, front disc brakes (plus) Tran, motor, all seats, original glass all around, gas cap & keys. Typical lower front nose rust and an air vent on the front roof that he forgot to mention on the ad. My #10 would be weigh the Pros and Cons and close the Deal without overpaying. You guys rock!

[@stuwemhoener5937]

I’m with Matt Jackson when he said you gotta connect with it. That being said, you know, if something is too rusty you won’t connect with it, if it has body damage you probably won’t connect with it.

[@VWLifeVW]

yes well put, that will turn a lot of people off real quick

[@bbrut3332]

Good list you presented. #10= Does your significant other enjoy you working on car projects or do they just put up with it. Consider yourself lucky is they are as interested as you and don't mind the $$$$ that the VW project will require.

[@connorrichmond3425]

I’ve owned my beetle for around two years and I’m still fixing previous owner disasters! Thankfully all very fixable things but I always tell people to watch out for that!

[@skyking95]

Excellent episode. Your recommendations are also good for the newer VW’s as well!!!

[@hanknipper3921]

Great list and great video Little Dude!

[@andrigtmiller]

One of the things you can do is use a refrigerator magnet (flexible) and hold it against the car and if it cannot stick you know there is way too much bondo on the car. Like that blue bus you showed, they just covered holes in bondo, so there is no metal structure. A lot of bad paint and body work also just uses bondo to cover dents, and it will be so thick that the magnet won't stick. There is a lot of sloppy paint and body work out there, and you really have to beware.

[@RRmeanmachine]

Always have a magnet with you is a great suggestion!

[@uwalp]

Absolutely. This is one of my top 5. I look all over for buckling, body panels out of alignment, deep cracks in the paint. Just like rust it can be fixed, but it is hard to know just how think the bondo is. I bought a 69 one time that looked great, but it turned out a tree fell on the top. Whoever fixed it was a sculpt!!! They made it look exactly as it should. But it was cracking. I ground off inch thick bondo in places. When the damage is that deep, 99% of us are not talented enough to fix it. Look for previous damage. Use the magnet.

[@stevebetzhold5726]

Great info as always! #10 - What is missing? - comes with experience but knowing what you are NOT getting when you buy a VW can be as important as knowing what is actually there. This is pretty important as some parts are either hard to come by, expensive or even not available (other than used).

[@crackpotts5347]

Boy, no kidding!

[@i976scirocco3]

I agree, this would be my #10 too. Is it complete? Rare parts missing can turn your 'good deal' upside down. Priced a semaphore or a MK1 Swallowtail Rabbit chrome surround marker lights lately? Hint : I'll be putting the markers on Samba soon 😁

[@slimpickins3425]

Clasic VWLife at its best! Defiantly a new and different vlog Jake and Gary, loved it! But we all know why we pour endless amounts of money in our cars and busses. its cause we think with our hearts, the sentimental value cannot be expressed in dollars. My Betsy is a rust night mare, but 42 years ago I drove it out of the showroom, and raised my family in it. So yea theres nothing my first love doesnt get. But the catch is she takes me to school, in other words, I do it all myself. so theres the #10 for me! Peace to all you VWLifers!

[@RRmeanmachine]

Right on! Yes, Jake knows he has to bury me in Jerry the Bus!

[@hammer5859]

Great video! I always check how and where it was stored.

[@VWLifeVW]

yes that's important too thanks!

[@np1584]

Oh man, what an amazing video!! Wish I had this a couple of years ago when I got my wee red... You hit the nail on the head - especially with wires I've got 17 other owners bodged jobs to fix. I think number 10 should be how much fun and where you can take a VW. That, or find a local group/club and attend events. That's a big part and I'm loving this year being able to socialise in person with other VW owners as well as yourselves. The VW world is just such a great community who welcome everyone with open arms.

[@BrewDub73]

Agreed on all mentions. I definitely check the drums to see if they’re free.

[@johnnewcomb1128]

Awesome list of what to consider. Thanks guys 👍

[@VWLifeVW]

Our pleasure!

[@danvillareal9996]

number 11 thanks so much for the good info !

[@voodoobird5913]

Very useful information for everyone. Thanks guys.

[@VWLifeVW]

Glad you think so!

[@irvingnorwood1640]

Another great video. I believe there is a standard price for VWs. I mean that you should buy the most complete car as possible. Fenders, bumpers, seats, etc. if you are getting a good deal, most likely there are missing items. When you find them and pay for what is missing in your deal, you maybe should have spent more for a more complete car cause you will still spend the same amount buying missing parts. That has been my experience with my buddies.

[@wadelewis6992]

Thanks for sharing another great video. ✌🏻❤️VWLIFE

[@VWLifeVW]

our pleasure wade! :)

[@patrickscribner3610]

Outstanding video! You nailed all the top things I consider. I hope y'all do a live Q&A again.

[@VWLifeVW]

thanks Patrick!

[@bobnorman4730]

History of the car, and originality. Love finding out the story of the car, who has owned it, and what has been done to it over the years.

[@VWLifeVW]

yes that really adds to the appeal of some cars for sure!

[@davidryan573]

One thing I look at is end play, grabbing the pulley (engine off) and trying to move it in or out. I’m currently doing a Ghia (my first one) the door seals and window seals are expensive compared to Bug, thanks for the video.

[@carlmoll3345]

Gold advice. Thank you

[@VWLifeVW]

Glad to help!

[@vwbusjake]

Let us know what y’all think and what y’all want to see in future videos!!

[@chrisjarmain]

Yes what is you guys favorite classic vw camper conversions. I'm saying westy, Devon, riviera and so on. And also then the modern conversion. Pros and cons to that. This is alot that can be covered. But some old conversions add alot of money onto the old vw especially if the little trinket items still remain. 🤙😎 So that's an idea. 😄

[@chrisjarmain]

Oh yes and just a side thing following on from the camping conversion idea. I see this vw bug that had a roof tent with it's own wee ladder leading you up into the thing. I mean damn that's a cool idea! Vw really had a lot of neat ideas. And so did the companies converting them. Great channel! Really very good honest love. Over here in the UK we don't get so many people doing these sorts of videos. Probably because of a lack in quantity of so many people having the love for these vws. So, such ideas like going for a title is an abstract idea. But!! That is in no way a dig at you guys just an unusual aspect I personally wouldn't have to think about over here. Plus also you could fit the UK ten fold over with you guys in the states. Anyway! Really enjoying the channel 😎🤙

[@hanknipper3921]

Great list and great video Little Dude

[@RRmeanmachine]

Thank you Big Dude! We went and found 5 today, all were total junk. Let them be,

[@stephensapp7233]

Great information!!

[@VWLifeVW]

Glad it was helpful!

[@fromthebeginningofvankind28]

All really good points guys. there are several good suggestions in the comments. I have Time for #10 old Vw's are gunna take time whether you are doing a full resto or a roadstoration or gen maintenance. Are you willing to put in the Time to get/keep the Vw on the road?! I like the top ten idea and maybe in-depth instructional videos to teach novis potential Vw'ers the ropes on things that may come across as intimidating. Like valve adjustments, carb adjustments, engine drop, burnt valves etc. Maybe even an in-depth explanation engine/trans rebuild I think you get what I'm sayin. good vid guys keep it up :)

[@DJMJR3630]

Thans for the tips VW LIFE✌️

[@VWLifeVW]

You bet!

[@crackpotts5347]

I've even used that tow bar on Francis 67 splitty

[@VWLifeVW]

yeah we can only imagine!

[@lowmanite]

Great video and great information. I love the father/son videos. It is easy to see, Jake ain't adopted. Looks like the old man. Great. Thanks.

[@VWLifeVW]

Thanks kimo!

[@blindflips4951]

My number 10 should have been your number two is it complete and how hard is it to find the pieces that are not there

[@argotamauricio]

if only i had this list when i bought my 1958.. excellent video guys, like always!!

[@VWLifeVW]

Thanks! 👍

[@DanTheManIOM]

I got that Jeremy tow bar and SPOT On set of tires, pissed away 200 dollars in Toledo once -- buying new tires to tow a roached 70 westy

[@VWLifeVW]

yes good to have both!

[@johnm.withersiv4352]

I bought a 30 year old Eurovan in California and drove it home to NC. It probably wasn't a good idea, but it was a fun adventure and I needed the adventure. Made it home but not quite as planned.

[@VWLifeVW]

that's awesome!

[@johnm.withersiv4352]

@@VWLifeVW It also made it to Austin for the Junebug Rally and home again which was also fun.

[@TheParvTubeShow]

Now THIS is the video that will explain me how I could get a vintage Volkswagen Beetle!! Parv

[@VWLifeVW]

yes sir!

[@jenny80myles]

#10 Where you gonna put it / store it. Gary's back yard is not an option :)

[@VWLifeVW]

True lol

[@imfrcd]

Well done video.

[@VWLifeVW]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@IrishRooster86]

Absolutely loved those words of wisdom from Mr. Gary. “Eat peanut butter and jelly for a year and buy a VW.” Been saving my pennies still and peanut butter and jelly is one of my favorites so I’m on my way hopefully. Peace out love all and VW for life.

[@VWLifeVW]

hey, that or beans and rice right?! :)

[@IrishRooster86]

I completely agree!! ✌🏼🤙🏼

[@charleslawrence7194]

Best "how to" video yet. Maybe I should say WARNING!! You guys should have done this one many moons ago. I drove by my bay everyday for several weeks and finally stopped to check it out. Went through the bonded title bit, new engine, floors, rocker panels and currently replacing body panels. You are correct about the wiring. Mike in So Cal just produced a video on the wiring. One thing I may have missed is the VIN will reveal the factory color. I bought the van because it was calling me. Good job guys. I would probably do it again.👍😁😀

[@RRmeanmachine]

When you know it, you know it! There have been a few VW's as soon as I saw it, I knew I had to buy it!

[@chevelleranch7481]

I dig your content. I had a 65 Baja bug when I was 14 thru 16 and sold it. I'm 51 now and have wanted to get another bug for quite a while , and just bought a 60 ragtop off of the samba 2 days ago. I restore GM muscle cars for a living , but I'm VW dumb. I think # 10 should be find someone to mentor you...someone like Gary if your lucky! I have a million questions about dumb interchangeability stuff...what's the best mfg. for this and that … the best place to buy this or that. I have that kind of knowledge for GM stuff , so I clearly see the importance of having a knowledgeable VW friend to phone! Keep up the great content!

[@RRmeanmachine]

Congratulations on the 1960!!

[@fyter889]

Caulked and painted over sunroof. I lucked out on my 78 bus sunroof, removed the caulking and interior headliner, found lots of rotting leaves over the rear, it took alot of cleaning and compressed air to rid the debris and clean the tracks and drains. It works great now!

[@VWLifeVW]

Good stuff yeah you got lucky it didn't sit there longer and rot!

[@JWClassicVW]

Good list guys! I would say it's a good idea to check the gas if you plan on trying to do that first run after sitting for a long while.

[@RRmeanmachine]

Worse smell ever! Varnished gasoline!

[@scottyrocks126]

Would the conditon of the gas be an influence on whether or not you would buy a car?

[@snowdogs59]

I agree with all your points. I would add that you need to feel a connection to the car. I’ve had several people drop their prices because they knew I’d care for the car well. You could do a whole episode on price. I think looking at the Samba regularly to get a feel for the market, but a lot goes into this.

[@VWLifeVW]

this is true! a seller sometimes want to see it go to a good home

[@rundoetx]

Thanks for all the pointers. I have one I've had my eye on for a while, but the guy has had it since 74 and he just cant let go of it yet, but sooner or later, he'll get tired of me asking. Thanks for posting.

[@VWLifeVW]

you'll get it eventually :)

[@rundoetx]

@@VWLifeVW Thanks.

[@GereDJ2]

Good shot. Maybe 11 could be your final, overall impression and emotional reaction of 1-10. Also, ask yourself, "Is the seller smarter and as experienced in VWs as you?" because it may have a lot to do with condition issues. And maybe most important: #12, get your wife or girlfriend some gifts and dinners along the way during your restoration unless you have a heated doghouse. .

[@kennethkitley5539]

just got a 74, does have rust but. Wiring is my main nemesis right now..... i may need help but i got a dub!

[@VWLifeVW]

Post a picture of it on our Facebook page! facebook.com/VWLifeVW/

[@jimstewart6145]

nice job.

[@VWLifeVW]

thanks

[@chrishomel9558]

Oh man.. Where do I start? First, thanks for this. Really important video. Yes rescue them but not all of them. First is Rust; YES, but then originality, and Electrical. How original is it? My 84 Vanagon is very original despite the body damage it had on one side, and NO RUST. That being said, it had electrical hacks all over, which I had to go through and undo. This is not for everyone, but I was up for it, so I could learn more. If I had to ask for more videos, (and you do a great job with this) I could only say more vanagon vids. They are a growing market, just because the early stuff is getting more scarce and expensive. I'm a life long air cooled guy but man, I'm surprised how much I've grown to love the "flying bricks". Keep up what You do guys. I really look forward to every video.

[@RRmeanmachine]

I bet we've had 4-5 Vanagon Westy's over the years. Weirdly enough, all air cooled. They are truly the most spacious and comfortable campers. The little Seaside Westy is really coming along nicely!

[@GrafsGarage3]

My tenth thing to think about is Time Spent on getting it on the road. How much time do you need to spend. Varies on the condition of the car of course, but Im three years and roughly 400 documented hours on my Fastback, while my Notchback I picked up, tuned up, patched up, blended, registered, inspected and licensed in less than a month!

[@livinthelife6056]

Thanks guys ! A Idea maybe a bit of a tutorial about the Samba for those who don’t know and what all it has.

[@VWLifeVW]

Great suggestion!

[@trail70brent]

What’s left over in the ashtray lol too funny😂🤣

[@VWLifeVW]

lol Marc :)

[@Opalsdad]

I thought this was a great video for , super beginners.. having owned a lot of Vw, I don’t give a shit about rust… you could fight it forever, I just love it and leave it…to do rust repair in California is roughly $250 plus, so yeah it’s gonna cost $45,000 just for the rust.. just enjoy them , but thanks again!

[@VWLifeVW]

yep sometimes it's better to just enjoy it as it is :)

[@anthonysharp8685]

I like to see if there is any extra parts or manuals that come with the vehicle as that will effect what I have to buy off the bat.

[@airheadvw4479]

how complete is it. have the rare parts been taken off. good video

[@VWLifeVW]

that's a good one

[@philmorris5958]

Rust,rust, rust. In the UK or any other wet climate rust is in 99.9% of all vehicles. Great video guys

[@VWLifeVW]

Thanks Paul!

[@waynefisher7753]

Interior can be a big one!

[@VWLifeVW]

Very big!

[@sargedutch1085]

100 dollars hour is the cost of labor at a good shop. Than the cost of parts. Rust is the biggest enemy of a VW. Great video.

[@VWLifeVW]

Well said!

[@andrewbrunson1667]

Great list, I’ve lived most of those problems. I still get fooled. Iam 73 and still get suckered some times. I won’t bore you with the stories on my currant 68 driver.

[@VWLifeVW]

very cool!

[@robbyd.4037]

# 10....."Cool Factor"

[@VWLifeVW]

yep that's a good one!

[@kennethswain6313]

I’d suggest that you have an idea of what you intend to do with it. It becomes part of the family. Will it unite or separate the family? A cheap car can cost more than money. If it’s a family supported project then it can fun for all. If momma ain’t happy then nobody is happy!

[@allanfoster6965]

Brilliant. Thanks for this list. Btw have you guys been watching 'Sarah-n-Tuned' and her resto of her Beetle Ragnar?

[@VWLifeVW]

yes we have! she's been hard at work and making amazing progress on it. really curious to see how it turns out. we are going to try to win it too :)

[@allanfoster6965]

@@VWLifeVW Sarah is always so thorough with her preparation and execution of the cars she has worked on. OCD could be mentioned. . . I would love to enter the competition but as i reside outside of the US and drive on the other (and correct side) of the road 😉😎😁

[@jeffowens2051]

#10 should be “How bad is your local aircooled shop”… Our long gone local “expert” took an all go and turned it into a 🤬no… 2332 dual carb replaced with a 1600dpdr with a 30/31, 4 wheel discs swapped out for 4 wheel drums, race belts replaced with factory lobster claws, 5 different brands of glass, 7 shades of tint… F-i-l took it in for an issue with the distributor…

[@TheJorgSacul]

I dumped my "trusted mechanic" when I found one of my rear hub nuts on finger tight (WITH cotter pin!) Guy supposedly had decades of experience. Have since found other squirrelly repairs he did. Your best bet, unfortunately, is find out where the people with big money and knowledge take their cars, and get LOTS of recommendation stories about the shop and their practices. Great small shops with that "one VW guy" are out there, but damn, there's a lot of inept lawn mower mechanics out there, too.

[@jeffowens2051]

Unfortunately, I was 2500 miles away at the time… Got back here a rew years later, “mechanic” passed before I could get my engine, brakes, seatbelts and my wife’s custom 68 Beetle back. Her car is in pieces by a barn up the road from our house.

[@TheJorgSacul]

Oh, that's awful! Nothing less than heartbreaking, I'm so sorry!

[@markj.7369]

Great video guys. Thank you. Here’s a fe ideas for other future informative videos 1) what do I need in my VW tool kit? 2) How far should I go with my spare parts collection? 3) stock vs aftermarket God bless

[@VWLifeVW]

We already made the first two videos you requested 👍

[@markj.7369]

@@VWLifeVW thank you. Was able to go back and find those really appreciate it

[@dubworldvwadventures]

I’d add to look for prior accident damage and previous repairs that were improperly done.

[@RRmeanmachine]

Good point! Always look for previous repairs and other tell tale signs, a crinkled up front apron, bumper mounts a little wompy.

[@VWLifeVW]

yep this is a good one!

[@jimmywilkinson9190]

Hey Gary! Go back in time - back to the 70s buy a bug for 50 bucks . In the mid 70s people would let them sit in their back yards because the 6v battery went dead .

[@VWLifeVW]

do you have a time machine we can borrow?

[@RRmeanmachine]

Heck yeah! You don't even have to go back that far. ABout 22 years ago, I picked up a 63 Bus once for $40!

[@Kikinahm]

You guys should do full class 11!😁

[@VWLifeVW]

we'd like to but there isn't much off road racing in our area actually.

[@TheJorgSacul]

I look for any accident history, especially if there are wavy panels or the like

[@VWLifeVW]

yes this is a big one!

[@jennysolomon-haase9103]

Tires! I just experienced this one. 16 yr old tires...keep em or toss em? While going thru a doing upgrades, I realized if I wanting to drive my Beetle more AND safely, I gave in and put new rubber on. I actual relaxed when driving!

[@RRmeanmachine]

Good! So many tires look good, plenty of tread left, but check that date code!

[@jennysolomon-haase9103]

Thx!! Same with my camp trailer tires too.

[@VWLifeVW]

Right on

[@stacycollier6262]

How about a leather belt rapped around a break caliper fore breaks lol

[@Sci_fi_and_cars]

10. what kind of wear do the pedals have? The mileage may turn over but if the rubber on the pedal is gone that might mean the difference between 20,000 miles and 200,000 miles. Also if the rubber is brand new, as in replaced that is just as telling.

[@RRmeanmachine]

Excellent tell tale for real mileage and wear. I always put new pedal pads on, makes me feel like it's getting a new fresh start on life.

[@daveosborne1909]

Fluid puddles under bus or bug before bying.

[@RRmeanmachine]

True! What about the ones sitting in my shop now with drip pans under them? Yikes!

[@bassjaymi]

How about if you have mechanical know how to constantly fix/repair?

[@VWLifeVW]

that's always a good thing to have

[@kellykonoske91]

Everyone should check out Muste1's vdeos on rust repar on VW's. He iis a surgeon!

[@VWLifeVW]

he really is, he never gets frustrated, it's all just a simple process for him

[@zimms-world]

Persons ability and willingness to learn if your abilities are limited. I found a bug that was really cheap and had rust but it was in the common places where beetles rust. I wanted to learn how to do the work so I took a chance. I could’ve bought a finished beetle but then I wouldn’t know what I know now about how to maintain the car and the nuances of VW’s

[@zimms-world]

@@Joesrustbuckets thanks

[@garrykellogg3215]

I like this. Now, what should someone bring with them when they want to do a 'Will it Run' on a VW that has not run in 5+ Years? And one on 'Taking a trip of 50+ miles' what should I bring in the event of a break down? Oh, and...'Making my VW last for more years than the 1st time around.'. #10: Is it (can it be) Road Worthy (Again)?

[@VWLifeVW]

hey Garry we have two videos on What parts to carry and one on what tools to carry :)

[@garrykellogg3215]

@@VWLifeVW I'm new to your channel and have not had the time to explore it. Though, I promise that I'll be doing that in the near future. So you have the 'Travel' one done 2X's, What about a 'Rescue/Revival' one?

[@jerryzunich6045]

How many owners the Vdub has gone through. Also, the stash you guys acquire, I would like to purchase Bentley manual for a 62 type 1😁. Is there a link to order from?

[@RRmeanmachine]

Go straight to the source! www.bentleypublishers.com/volkswagen/repair-information/vw-type-1-61-65-repair-manual.html

[@stacycollier6262]

Earl schibe paint garented to 35 mph or until you leave there parking lot

[@scotwheeler5789]

Consider your own skill for what you can do and can’t do. Can you get it running and running well? Or will you have to pay someone to work on it? Same with the body and paint. How skilled are you at repairing and maintaining a VW? Or what will it cost you to have the work done for you? Peace ✌🏻 out! #vwlife

[@jasonburton487]

#10 how hard are parts going to be to find . example type 4s 411/412

[@VWLifeVW]

yep that's true, if you can't find parts that makes it real hard

[@jasonburton487]

@@VWLifeVW Ive gotten lucky and have found a few NOS 411 parts so far :)

[@iraforleiter7954]

#10 Should be #1: what is the car’s history! How many owners? Any past mechanical/repair invoices available? Know the car before you buy!!!

[@VWLifeVW]

oh yeah that can really be neat when there is the whole history with it!

[@OhhState]

I like to see if I can catch the seller in a lie, and then probably walk away at that point. For vintage VWs I’ll ask if they engine leaks oil, if they say no, or not that I’ve noticed I almost can guarantee they are hiding other things. I also have a vintage airstream and my trick for buying a vintage airstream is to ask the seller if it leaks, if anyone tells you their vintage airstream doesn’t leak when it rains, they are lying about it and probably other things as well.

[@VWLifeVW]

ah interesting way to gauge the seller

[@ismaa-eelpetersen9401]

Very good points...all very ...very important when purchasing a volkswagen...but to all the vw sellers out there ...price the cars according to the condition its currently in and not what it could be...and thats why vw junk sale for ridiculous prices.

[@RRmeanmachine]

So true!!! Jake and I had a lead yesterday on a couple of Beetles, holy smokes, the guy wanted $5k for the biggest POS. We were nice and polite, listened to his good old vw stories, but I would have given him maybe $500 for it, maybe!

[@VWLifeVW]

we agree! we are seeing a lot of project cars at prices that would be if they were completed

[@daveglick5152]

previous crash damage.

[@VWLifeVW]

yep good one

[@steveschillinger3415]

What kind of money are you paying for complete stock to aftermarket. Are you going to make it stick again or leave it modified. Bringing it back to original does add some cost

[@VWLifeVW]

yep

[@vintage76vipergreenBeetle]

👍 The overpriced cars are hurting the hobby. It keeps the young kids from owning one. Just my opinion.

[@VWLifeVW]

yep it's harder and harder for the young ones to find a deal.

[@darthbuster]

I'm not "young" anymore but I have run into this. I am wanting to get back into the hobby and I've been looking for a fair deal for a couple years now and they are not easy to find. I don't know if its just the current state of our economy or the popularity of the hobby or what?

[@vintage76vipergreenBeetle]

@@darthbuster Rich folks, pay 50k for bug, or 100k for a bus. That's what screws the hobby.

[@RRmeanmachine]

Yes, I am afraid it is just the old rule, supply vs demand. They don't make them anymore and the demand is growing every day for classic VW's.

[@mxaexm]

I’m in the same “boat”. Would love to get into the hobby but the Vw market is crazy right now…

[@MichaelBurnham]

rust to cost ratio... I have had a '74 standard, then got '62 project, god i hated selling that. now that money and stable life, I am tommorow looking at a 1970, being its only $150, mostly rolling shell, I am okay with that if the rust too bad

[@VWLifeVW]

good luck!

[@mikehammer4546]

#10, do I have the time or talent to bring it back.

[@VWLifeVW]

yep thanks Mike!

[@dpoteat56]

In RUST I trust... ain't scared.... PATCHES that's the name of my 69 bus... Having fun in the name of the game

[@VWLifeVW]

you are the exception when it comes to rust. it's hard for most people to tackle it :)

[@camperdan1972]

#10: Time... Do you 'really', 'honestly' have the time its gonna take to make it what you want... It will always take way longer than you think. So be sure you have the available time and the support and blessing of your family to allow you to put in the hours... you don't want your loved ones to end up hating your pride and joy Volkswagen because it stole you away from them for years. So with that in mind... buy the best you can afford... in the long run it'll save you money and "time". Good luck people... Go save a Volkswagen 😉

[@jimmywilkinson9190]

If a 15 year old punk ( It's me ) can build a 1200 that ran for 135 ,000 miles , I had the end play set . Anyone can ! The trick to build a good engine is good parts . In the early 70s we got parts at the Dealer . crankshaft exchange was 12.50 with a good core , rods were 2 dollars . Lets put it this way a crank kit with rods and bearings + gaskets was 35 $ you didn't need to read a mic. just put it together and it was right .

[@VWLifeVW]

wow those were the days!

[@vonwesty3544]

#10-Where are you gonna store it? Honorable mention-What's your realistic skill set to get (or keep) it going?

[@RRmeanmachine]

Very good point. I know I get a little antsy here at TJK HQ when there are non-running VW's all over the place!

[@NigelHerron]

Rust and money 4 sure

[@lynnsabcs]

#10-Does Momma like it?

[@RRmeanmachine]

Happy wife, Happy life. That's what they say.

[@russellmancillas4464]

I always look in the engine bay, should always be the same color, not black

[@VWLifeVW]

Good tip!

[@Brando-Green]

Has it been crashed and badly repaired? I’ve seen some old VW’s with bad repair jobs, like Ghia’s with front clip riveted on and lots of bondo, fiberglass and rust - well hidden. Get under there and look!

[@VWLifeVW]

yeah that's a major one thanks!

[@RRmeanmachine]

Ghia noses are like a Hollywood starlet, plastic surgery all over!

[@jmcvay2k6]

10. Will it cause a divorce?

[@VWLifeVW]

valid concern :)

[@frankmick8683]

Be choosy picking a VW shop. My Bug experience thus far has been a disaster.

[@VWLifeVW]

Sorry to hear that 😕

[@bigjohn4574]

Number 10 should be ......Do you have tools to work on your VW. I've seen VW owners that don't invest in the correct tools to work on their VW and drive them with loose nuts and bolts. Number 11.. Breaks, Number 12 slammed or stock .

[@yttkuar]

Will this project car (ha ha) lead to a divorce?

[@VWLifeVW]

valid concern