Budget VW T3 Conversion

topol-m · Apr 17, 2023

Hey fellow adventurers and DIY enthusiasts!

I recently transformed a rough Volkswagen T3 van into a budget-friendly camper and wanted to share my experience with you.

I bought the van for 800 EUR, despite its corrosion, exhaust issues, and worn-out seats. The conversion process involved removing the rear benches, building a flat wooden floor, and covering it with carpet. I spent about 400 EUR on the conversion, focusing on essential fixes.

I faced challenges like finding a suitable exhaust muffler and dealing with the van's issues. My takeaway is that it's often better to invest in a van in better condition, even if it costs more upfront.

I'm now working on upgrades like a rooftop tent, reinstalling a bench seat, and adding more amenities. I plan to keep posting updates about the rooftop tent and other improvements, so stay tuned! I'd love to hear your thoughts, feedback, or suggestions on my project, and I'm looking forward to connecting with others who share similar interests. Let's inspire and learn from one another!

Happy adventuring!

casioqv · Apr 20, 2023

Very cool! That will be a fun adventure vehicle for a good price!

Have you considered doing a westfalia pop-top conversion vs adding a roof tent? It's pretty unique that it's a factory option for these, already made, and possible to find on wrecked vans, but I imagine a really big project.

Lajning · Apr 23, 2023

800 euro? That's a steal!

topol-m · Apr 23, 2023

@casioqv well I already made most of a roof tent some interior left to be done, so I am not going to change approach now.
Few pictures.

you can see more with descriptions on expedition.ninja

@Lajning yap you can find more of them in Bosnia and Herzegovina for example link (to get approximate price in EUR just divide amount by 2). However, it will be hard to bring it to a state that will allow you to register it anyway else.

Sad thing in my case is that when I bought it (2019) there was a syncro in much better state for about 1500 EUR I can not recall exact amount. However I did not have money at that time. They now cost much more.

Hnoroian · Apr 23, 2023

I’m a ACVW fanatic, have a love for any bus. I first saw your first post minutes after you posted but got hung up somewhere else. Great score on the bus, and quick progress too, congrats!