1986 T3 Vanagon GL, a gem that drives perfectly. Overview:
- Smooth, stable, quiet on the highway
- 20+mpg, no oil burning or leaks.
- Nearly new Subaru 2.5l, 165hp engine conversion from Tacoma specialists SmallCar.com.
- New oversized front disk brake upgrade, and 5 new tires.
- New wheel bearings, power steering rack, upper and lower ball joints and bushings, and new tie rod ends.
- No accidents or chassis rust. Middle seats included. No radio or AC, rear wiper disconnected, otherwise, everything works.
This van pulls any interstate mountain pass at the speed limit or more, there’s nothing like it. BTW, I am a mechanic (not VW) with a small machine shop and like things tidy and solid.
This is a turn-key vehicle, IMO has many miles ahead without issues. I hope its future includes creature comforts like AC and cruise control, cosmetics like paint, and drive train upgrade like a modern limited slip transmission. Meanwhile, it will continue to turn heads and empower the explorer in you.
Details:
- 2.5l Subaru, high torque motor conversion by SmallCar in Tacoma in 2017. Engine from 2012 Legacy with 36k miles. Conversion includes new alternator, power steering pump, AC compressor, engine mounts, fuel tank, clutch master cylinder, coolant pipes, radiator, exhaust manifold, stainless muffler and mounts, tailpipe, dash mounted ScanGauge, clutch, custom bell housing, custom alloy oil pan, ECU harness, and air intake and filter system.
- 16” wheels, Bilstein shocks, HD springs, 1” lift, Nokian WR G4 all weather tires.
- 347k chassis miles with very conscientious owners. Originally sold in Tacoma. Local ever since.
- ALL receipts from day one. This amount of documentation is amazing.
Improvements since 2022:
- Oversized spare tire carrier
- New windshield
- Passenger seat swivel base
- Locking center console
- German, rubber front floor mats
- Sound dampening floor insulation throughout
- Foam interlocking tile over main interior floor
- Rear hitch assembly (2”, 350lb capacity, trailer wiring)
- Side awning (8’ x 6’) and 3 roof rack spans (6 gutter clamps)
- Instrument cluster wiring loom
- Smaller items—LandRover side mirrors, window cranks, door boxes, dash ashtray cover, front saddle blanket seat covers, armrest hardware, battery disconnect switch, fire extinguisher and mount, rear hatch storage bag insert, LED bulbs for all lighting (except halogen headlights), front door rain deflectors, shift column extension, additional accessory outlets, and more.
- Carefully selected safety and road gear (lights, pump, wrenches, etc.).