RSS FeedsVW T25 High Days, Holidays and Festivals - Don’t Break Down
Summer is here and we’re all looking forward rolling out of the drive and on to better things Rock, wine, beer, folk festivals, touring the Continent or seeking the ever-elusive perfect wave. But why do the shrinks agree that these are among the most emotionally exhausting times in partner and family lives? Well, some of the drama can be taken away with a little forethought so here’s a checklist to give you and your VW T25 the best chance of success.
Off the beaten track in Devon
Wheels
Check the tyres for legal tread depth and add a little if you are planning a long trip, tyres do wear out. Inflate them to the correct pressure for load and speed, greater comfort and fuel economy are the prizes. Remember, new tyres are more resistant to punctures by virtue of greater tread depth so if things are a bit marginal, spend now, not stuck by the roadside in Uzbekistan. Don’t forget to check the spare too!!
Brakes
You’ll have maximum load so what stopped you on a run to the supermarket might not do so well running down a mountain pass…..Check pad and shoe wear now and replace as needed.
Engine
Oil, filters and plugs
They are cheap so if you are near a service interval, treat the old girl. Look for signs of leakage around hoses and the radiator if you’ve got a ‘wet’ VW. Wet or dry, a look at the battery is next, are there whitish stains anywhere indicating acid leaks? Is the battery a sealed for life type or does it need topping up with de-ionised water? It helps to undo the battery terminals brush them clean, smear them with petroleum jelly and re-assemble them to ensure the best charge from the generator. But take care or you might get an expensive shower of sparks if the spanner touches the bodywork when working on the live terminal……
Drive Belt etc
Essential on an air-cooled VW and utterly vital on a wet one is drive belt tension and condition for generator, fan, and (some) water or power steering pumps. Any sign of cracking or fraying of the belts means spend money now not stuck in some out of the way place. Remember a breakdown might take 6 hours by the time you’ve got a mechanic or the bits and that is a big percentage of your holiday wasted let alone missing that magic solo riff or that monster wave everyone but you rode.
Fluid Levels
If any fluid levels need topping up, ask yourself why and find out.
Wipers
Wipers are cheap to replace and screen wash fluid in the washer bottle will more easily remove oily traffic film and the summer dead fly scourge.
Exhaust
Exhaust fumes are deadly so check for exhaust leaks. Run the engine while holding a rolled up rag over the exhaust pipe outlet and listen for signs of ‘chuffing’ noises from silencer and joint leaks.
Light checks
Do these next, not forgetting brake lights (If you are solo, park near a supermarket window at night and check for reflections.). Don’t forget the number plate lights and trailer socket. Check the trailer board and trailer lights at the same time- avoid delay on the 1st day when you hitch up. OK - so that’s the mechanicals done, next post sorts out the interior and essential supplies.