So, I’ve been messing around with this ’23 VW bus project lately, and let me tell you, it’s been quite a journey. I figured I’d share my experience, the ups and downs, and everything in between.
It all started when I stumbled upon this old, rusty Volkswagen bus. It was a 23-window model, which I later learned is pretty rare. I’ve always been a fan of classic cars, and the VW bus, with its unique design and history, has always held a special place in my heart. I decided I just had to have it and began imagining all the road trips I could take.
First thing I did was a ton of research. I read that these 23-window versions are not something you see every day. Apparently, only a small percentage of VW buses were made with this specific window configuration. I also learned that they are sometimes called “Sunroof Deluxe” models in the U.S. Fancy, right?
- Got the bus towed to my garage. It was a sad sight, but I saw potential.
- Started by cleaning it up, removing all the junk that had accumulated over the years.
- Assessed the damage. Rust everywhere, some parts were completely gone, and the interior was a mess.
I got to work. I decided on a two-tone red and white paint job. Everyone knows that color combo on a VW bus, right? It just screams classic. I spent weeks sanding down the rust, patching up holes, and prepping the body for paint. It was grueling work, but seeing the bus slowly transform was incredibly satisfying.
- Sourced parts from all over. Some were easy to find, others, not so much. The internet is crazy for VW enthusiasts.
- Rebuilt the engine. This was the hardest part, and I definitely had to call in a favor from a mechanic friend.
- Redid the interior. New upholstery, panels, the works. I wanted it to feel like stepping back in time but with a bit more comfort.
After many weekends of work and quite a bit of money, I finally finished. And let me tell you, driving it around, I get all the smiles and thumbs-ups. It’s like being a part of a special club. There is a very simple and romantic feeling when I drive it. I never listen to the radio in it.
This project was more than just restoring an old vehicle. It was about preserving a piece of history, a symbol of a simpler time. And yeah, it’s also about the joy of driving something you’ve built with your own hands. Every time I hit the road, it’s a reminder of why I started this whole thing in the first place.
