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VW T2 COMBI VAN
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Body final preps, before encasing in epoxy primer and 2-pack, courtesy of Mark Smith restorations
Purchased for £70 in 1989 without wheels or an engine, this VW Combi van was brought back to life as a service vehicle to many projects, then retired for over ten years, when the rust made mincemeat of the bodywork.
It was fitted with a tow ball and a special bar made which bolted to the chassis, making engine servicing and changes far simpler. This redeeming feature was expanded on with alloy wheels.
The
beating heart of Miss Ocean, note the alternator as standard
The van then saw service with the Kismet Girls, and Bluebird Marine Systems in 2016. A full rebuild ensued with several specialists involved. For a short time, including the grand master, Gerald (Gerry) Tinsley. Who painstakingly breathed on the bodywork, welding for much of three solid months, to make her what she is today.
Thanks Gerry : )
What saved this bus from damnation, was that she finally became a classic vehicle, being over forty year of age. This is the incentive to many classic car owners to get the wallet out. We think it might be an idea to lower the age of consent to thirty, or even twenty years. To stop the bone crushers recycling would be classics. Where, the good old days of breakers yards you can rummage around in are long gone.
Then to conclude (for now), Cleaner Ocean Foundation took over the wagon's restorations for their ocean and climate awareness campaigns in 2022. With a new interior to be fitted in 2024 for their EU Water Mission, and the Elizabeth Swann, solar and hydrogen powered trimaran project. Into 2025.
When not in use, this bus is stationed as an exhibit at Herstmonceux Museum. Courtesy of Lime Park Heritage Trust.
The
Kismet Girls would have been proud. The Combi bus is yet to be decorated
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