What was the year of greatest production for the Type 2 ?

[Anonymous]

1972 - A total of 259,101 vans were produced.

 

[scott wilson]

testament to the fact that crossovers rule!!

 

[Justin & Muttley]

That's why I always laugh when I see a 'Rare' Crossover model on eBay!!

 

[Loxy]

But how many rust free ones are there?
Are the rumours about cheaper russian steel used on 72s true?

 

[Justin & Muttley]

But how many rust free ones are there?
Are the rumours about cheaper russian steel used on 72s true?

I've heard those rumours over the years - but to be honest, my '72 is surprisingly solid compared to many (solid floors etc)

I think the main consideration is that most of us don't know how/where our vans were stored in their early lives - or what they were used for (what I mean is that if the first owner of your bus liked to park it on the beach then rust might be an issue sooner) 8)

 

[Loxy]

Vaguely remember Keith Seume mentioning the cheap steel in one of his books, will have to look it up.

 

[Buss69]

Regarding the Russian steel thing, I used to have a late 72, I was the 3rd owner and after buying discovered what a rust bucket it was. It had lived outside all it's life and had apparently been looked after and serviced yearly. This bus eventually failed it's MOT and I lost heart (although somebody did buy it and repair it, anyone know of MPF 781L).
Fast forward to 2002 and I bought a 71 that had by all accounts led a worse life although it was a very low mileage at nearly 26K compared to the 72 which had done about 115K. The difference underneath was amazing, apart from a bit of cab floor and rear corners the bus is still sporting it's original sills. I'm amazed.

So going back to the point, apparently VW did buy Russian steel in the 70's so some 72's maybe made from good metal and some not. Since learning this i've checked out many VW's of this time and have to say i've noticed a difference, maybe it's just me!

 

[Little Nod]

1971 Bays rule :lol: Only because I have one 8)
However all early bays are GREAT!! :!: :wink:

 

[user 3881]

i agree 71 is the ultimate year for a type 2 :lol: after that vw lost the plot!! :lol: :lol: :lol: :lol: Only kidding i too have a 71 :wink:

 

[Guest]

having just bare metalled my 71 i was surprised how OG it was, the only thing that was gone were the front arches and 2-3 2CM spots on the very bottom lip of the front panel and the seat belt mounts :shock:

The rear corners were solid, only one small patch was welded at the rear arch, the sills were great the floor is rock solid. This bus wasnt abused but it was never stored inside. I couldnt be happier

 

[woodslat]

I just got a 72 crossover deluxe in, first 1972 I've ever had that still has the original battery tray still intact!

 

[faux]

My first bus was a RHD UK 72, it had had 12 previous owners and was still in OG paint.

It had never been welded and went through 3 MOT's with me first time.

The person after me said it need an inch square on beam....woopty doo!

And the person after that said it would need a new inner sill for next MOT.......not too bad then.

(I do love my 60 more though... :mrgreen: