Here at JK HQ, we’re passionate about diving into restoration projects, especially with classic VW vehicles. Our workshop is always buzzing with activity as our team works on their own vehicles before and after hours, and even during lunch breaks. One of our most memorable projects was restoring a T2 Bay as a team, which we proudly took to multiple shows. With our combined experiences of triumphs and challenges, we’ve gathered some top tips on project VWs to help you tackle your own restoration with confidence.
Tackling Rust in VW Restoration Projects
Let’s start by addressing one of the biggest headaches in any restoration—rust. It’s the word that can quickly add zeros to your budget. Rust, if left untreated, can severely damage your vehicle, weakening its structure and potentially making it unsafe and devalued.
Rust occurs when metal components interact with oxygen and moisture, and it’s worsened by salt, which speeds up the oxidation process. Common areas that are prone to rust on VWs are exposed metal sections where paint has chipped or primer has worn away, especially on older vehicles that have seen wet, salty winter roads.
Before starting any project, thoroughly inspect your vehicle for rust. Some notorious rust spots on VWs include:
VW Beetle:
Under the wheel arches
Spare wheel well and firewall (under the bonnet)
Battery area under the rear seats
Heater channels
Quarter panels behind the rear window
Rear luggage section below the window
Type 2 Split Screen and Bay:
Roof guttering (a tough area to repair)
Rear battery trays in the engine compartment
Engine lid
Lower six inches all around the vehicle
Wheel arches (front and rear)
Cab doors
Jacking points, outriggers, and floor
T25:
Fuel tank (a common water trap)
Chassis rails and sills
Jacking points
Battery tray
Wheel arches
Bottom of all doors
Roof gutters
The VW T4 is still a 'modern' Transporter, since the engine is at the front, but some of them are now more than 35 years old and may be getting affected by rust. Newer models like the VW T5 and VW T6 are less prone to rust but should still be checked thoroughly before diving into your project. You can check out our VW T4 Buyers Guide, our T5 Buyers Guide, or our T6 Buyers Guide to protect yourself before you delve into your next project.
To protect your project from rust, we recommend treating exposed metal with products like Nuxodol Rust Prevention to ensure long-lasting protection.
Read our blog on Nuxodol an environmentally friendly approach to rustproofing
If you discover rust, it’s crucial to remove all corroded metal and replace it with new panels. The complexity of the job will depend on the location of the rust. For instance, replacing cab doors is much easier than tackling roof guttering. We offer high-quality Preservation Parts panels to help you with repairs.
High-Quality Parts for VW Restoration
As specialists in VW parts, we always recommend using the highest quality parts you can afford. At JK, we stock a wide selection of premium parts, including our own Preservation Parts range, designed for long-lasting restorations. The old saying “buy cheap, buy twice” certainly applies here—cheaper alternatives may not last, resulting in the need for replacement sooner than expected.
Read our blog on Preservation Parts a brand focus
Before starting your project, it’s also wise to research the availability of parts, especially if you’re working on a rare VW model. Rest assured, at JK HQ, we stock over 10,200 parts and can source many more on special orders, shipping them worldwide.
Buying a Half-Finished VW Restoration Project
Thinking about picking up a half-completed VW project? While it can be tempting, it’s essential to approach it with caution. Here are some key things to consider:
Who did the work so far, and what’s their experience level?
Are there receipts and a parts list detailing what’s been done?
Is the project being sold due to an unresolved issue?
How much filler has been used? Excessive filler can be a sign of deeper problems.
Filler and Paint Jobs
When inspecting a project vehicle, be wary of filler and fresh paint. Filler can hide imperfections, but too much of it may indicate shortcuts. Similarly, fresh paint might cover up more serious issues underneath. Always inspect carefully, even if the vehicle looks recently restored.
Wiring Problems in VW Restorations
Poor wiring is another common issue in classic VW restorations. Over time, many vehicles develop a maze of wiring from multiple quick fixes, leading to electrical faults. When working on our project bus, we removed several meters of unnecessary wiring that served no purpose.
Before committing to a project, check the wiring carefully, as it can reveal whether previous owners cut corners. You can also refer to JK’s wiring guides for helpful tips and advice on tackling electrical issues.
Creative Fixes and "Bodges"
Over the years, we’ve seen some interesting “bodge” jobs—improvised fixes that might get you back on the road temporarily but aren’t long-term solutions. From tights used as fan belts to duct tape holding parts together, these quick fixes often hint at deeper problems.
Despite the challenges, we love nothing more than getting involved in a restoration project. We hope these restoration tips will help you in tackling a project vehicle with more confidence.
And remember, we always love seeing your progress! Share your photos with us on our Facebook page and check out what our customers have been up to with their own projects via our blog Just Kampers Your Rides
For more advice and parts, head to Just Kampers or speak to our technical team on 01256 862288