We had the pleasure of managing this project and handling the mechanical, assembly, and drivability aspects of this project for Tom, who is based in Tacoma, WA. Tom had stored this project for 28 years, waiting for the perfect opportunity to complete it. Some initial metal work had been done by Kerstan Rillos of Rillos Restoration in Washington. The project was then brought to us by our long-time friend and mentor, Jack Morris of Spokane, Washington. We were delighted to take on this project and oversee the entire process to bring Tom's long-term vision to fruition.
For the paint, we entrusted John Jones in Colorado. He completed the remaining metal and body work before painting the bus in its original colors of turquoise and blue white. John also installed the glass and interior with the help of Doug Corson of Classics and Street Rod Interiors.
Tom wanted a straight axle conversion and a slight lowering of the bus. Franz crafted a beautifully TIG welded and 2.5" narrowed beam. We then provided a straight axle transaxle to John and subsequently shipped the bus to our shop in Utah. We then built a "Secret Stock" engine for the bus, a 1776cc engine designed to resemble the original 40hp engine the bus would have had. Featuring a single carburetor, single port heads, generator with voltage regulator attached, a cast iron Bosch distributor, a stock bus air cleaner, and a single tip stainless exhaust, this engine made for a fun and torquey ride, capable of comfortably pushing the bus over 70mph on the highway.
Upon completion, Tom flew to Utah to take delivery of the bus. We showcased it at the local VW Classic Show in Riverton, UT, where Tom won Best in Show—a remarkable achievement for the bus's debut. Even more impressive was Tom's drive home, as he drove the bus 12 hours back to Tacoma, Washington without a single issue.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to everyone involved in the project and to Tom for entrusting us with his 28-year endeavor.
Some other detailed photos of the bus before it left our shop below.
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