Alvin, The 1974 California Campmobile

1974 Bali Yellow Westfalia Campmobile - Californian Import.

Bought in September 2012 about 2am after a few glasses of wine. Here's the first few pics I saw on the advert on TLB.





With the help of the good folk on TLB I decided that this was the bus for me, and nervously paid a complete stranger my life savings. 13 long long weeks later (see here... http://thelatebay.com/index.php?topic=17072.0 ) the bus arrived!

Transported from Derby to Devon by Jamie at Ox Vehicle Transportation.





Dec '12 - It went straight to the garage for a service, MOT and a big list of other things that needed fixing. Everything rubber had pretty much perished in the Californian heat. Work done by Rob at Local VDubs near Exeter.

I then had to leave it there for 2 weeks while we went away for Christmas and new year. By the time we got back he was all ready to go.

Named Alvin by my other half, because of his US plates. Seemed to suit him, even though before he arrived, in my mind, He was a She called Doris...



Jan '13 - A scary drive home - first time driving a camper, first time driving a LHD and the steering was pulling all over the place. Don't think my girlfriend took her hands from in front of her eyes all the way! 4 wheel geometry needs sorting...

Off to the DVLA next to get it registered. Took the forms in on the Tuesday, and by the Thursday I had the tax and new reg number in the post.

Lots of jobs to do now, starting with tidying the interior and attaching the new reg plates. Lots of Californian sand and dirt to get rid off too!

Will keep you updated...

 

Congrats! Each job done is a job done and one closer to getting on the open road.

 

Great choice on the name DB.
I know it felt like a long time from when you sent your money to when the bus arrived, but was it really Sept 2011 ? ???

 

Today's little job - removed the old US plate from the back...



...and replaced it with a 70's style plate from Tippers Vintage Plates.





Then went on a trip to the beach. Alvins first day trip out!

 

You've got a fantastic looking bus there. I just love that colour. 8)

 

Lovely van.... great vintage numberplate.

 

Great bus

 

Looking good worth the wait I hope

 

love the plates, glad you got out in it - face ache from smiling?

 

Cool bus like it i will keep an eye out for u as im down that way quite abit

 

Looks like you have done really well there - I'd be really happy with that

 

Lovely bus
Plus need to get me some of those number plates.