VW camper vans became popular in the 1960s and 1970s as symbols of the counter cultural movement. Hippies were notorious for piling into them and following bands on road trips both within the United States and abroad. The campers remained popular throughout the 1980s as recreational vehicles for individuals and families. As of 2011, vintage VW campers remain a popular mode of transportation. They have earned a reputation for being durable; however, occasionally parts become damaged and must be replaced. When fitting a VW sliding door, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
Instructions
- 1
Determine the year of your VW camper. Compare this to the year of your replacement door to be sure it's compatible with the camper. The sliding door first appeared on 1963 models. Years 1963 through 1967 are compatible. Other compatible years are 1968 to 1971, 1972 to 1979 and 1979 to 1991. If the camper was made during 1979, you must also determine whether it is a model T2b or model T3. Model T2b is compatible with years 1972 to 1978. Compared to the T3, the T2b is narrower and more rounded in appearance. The model T3 is boxier, slightly wider and features more amenities. T3s were produced through 1991 and are also called Vanagons.
2Remove the bottom bracket on the replacement door, and record its placement with masking tape. Place shims between the door and latch to make the door align with the rear latch of the camper.
3Clean and grease the tracking and hinge. Attach the hinge to the van and slide a rubber door seal over it. Adhere the seal to the doorway.
4Lift the door upward so that the top rollers snap into the upper track. When the top is secured, press the bottom rollers into the bottom track and bolt on the hinge at the rear of the door.
