Busless newbie saying hello.

[Us2]

Hi,
Just stumbled across this forum today, what a great site!

Sorry to ask a favour when I've just arrived, but I'm hoping you folks might be able to give me some ideas as to the best route/place to buy a solid tintop (LHD acceptable). I've owned a couple of rusty UK buses before and can spot a fair deal for these, but the LHD import market is still a bit alien to me and I'm still stuggling to get a firm idea of what is a reasonable price.
I'm off tonight to look at a Californian 71 tintop which is without interior, MOT or UK registration and is advertised as rust free other than the usual trouble under the bay window. I know I'm asking a lot without pics, but what would you all be prepared to pay if it is as described?

Would be interested in details of any buses for sale within a couple of hours drive from North Essex (sorry, hectic work and family schedule would prevent me from travelling much further to look).

Thanks!

 

[Guest]

Hi and welcome,

Make sure the bus is solid, just becasue its from So Cal doesnt means its rust free. with no interior/no MOT or REG id be asking why? is the PO to lazy or is was it too much trouble? i wouldnt pay more than 3-4K for a solid rust free bus like that. if you check all of this forsale section there are several buses still forsale in better condition with MOT reg etc for around that price. Always err on the side of caution, as if this one isnt right there are loads more forsale atm.

There are several traders on the site, some import RHD rust free from SA so that is another option if your after a RHD van, you could try Scott Wilson. Theres also K and K. im sure one of them will jump in sooner or later. there seem to ba alot of good value for money buses around at the moment.

Happy hunting :wink:

 

[Us2]

Hi Johnny,
Thanks for your reply and advice.

I've spent the past few years wasting money and making plenty of mistakes with vans so I'm determined to do better this time!

Yeah, I've seen lots of scary 'rust-free' imports at shows with huge price tags so its good to get some recommendations for more trustworthy dealers.

My ideal bus would be an early, tintop panel and RHD would be great cos I've never driven a lefty before, although I'm sure I'd cope if the right bus came along!

Interior isn't that important for me. I'm fond of most of the main conversions, but its also fun to create exactly what you want. Having a complete original interior is cool, but then you're committed to preserve those warped, stained cupboards for prosperity even when it isn't that practical for what you need.

Do you know what paperwork I would need from a seller to give to dvla to begin uk registration? I've been trying to contact the dvla but they're constantly busy today.

Fingers crossed and thanks again.

 

[Guest]

im not sure as my buses were all UK RHDs, but you could ask slammedresto, gary as hes just done this, i know theres a section somewhere possibly a sticky on the site on the details of what you need to do.

you could check here first http://www.vwclassics.co.uk/" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false; it would be alot less hassle.

 

[Us2]

Hmmm, I like the look of the 69 on that site. Wish they weren't so far away, seen quite few buses I like the look of in Cornwall.

 

[Araon]

Try monkey spinner Tim hes up here in Stamford not too far from your location straight up the M11/A14 well worth a look at some of his stuff....

 

[RICH-I-AM]

Welcome mate.Just a quick tip.... Dont concern yourself about buying a LHD. I got my US (LHD) import a few weeks ago.When i picked it up i had never driven a lefty before. I had to drive right round the M25 and up the M1. Was easy,got used to it straight away.Even towed my little caravan to VW Action at the weekend. Good luck with your search :mrgreen:

 

[Simon Hall]

Hi Busless
I have a nice December 71 tin top (cross over)that i am selling, have a 100% happy customer base and feel my prices make other traders wince, no huge mark ups here.
The bus i am talking about is a 2 owner from new, massive folder of receipts from day one and still in it's original paint and an interior thats hardly been used, some wear and tear but mostly located to areas that are easily replaced and only improving the bus
I am not close to you though, Torbay Devon but often send vehicles all over the country or even known to meet the new owner at the local airport with their ready to drive home bus!
Cheers
Simon 07971827006

 

[Us2]

Well, so much for me taking my time!!!!
Just put a deposit down on a nice little 71 lefty. Turned out to be as described with just a repair needed under the window. Got to be patient now as getting it on Sunday, I'm so excited, looking forward to discovering its little quirks and having the usual family arguments over its name.
Thanks Simon for the pics, would have been very tempted by that one, I can tell you've got a very good reputation.
Thanks for the positive replies and making me feel welcome!