Buying a T3 engine advice please

[neomoniker]

Hi 80/90 members,
I'm thinking of joining your ranks by purchasing a T3 camper. Specifically I'm wanting one with the 2.1 waterboxer engine.
Can any members tell me what is considered high miles and time for a rebuild on these engines? (assuming it's been well serviced)
Thanks
J

[ghost123uk]

Hi there J, and welcome to club 80-90

I'm thinking of joining your ranks by purchasing a T3 camper. Specifically I'm wanting one with the 2.1 waterboxer engine.

Good choice (imho )

Can any members tell me what is considered high miles and time for a rebuild on these engines? (assuming it's been well serviced)

In my opinion, and experience, as these engines are all 25 to 30 years old now, mileage means very little indeed. An engine could have only 50K on the clock, but have had the wrong antifreeze in it (important that), might have been stood unused for years, might have been overheated, might have been run lean or ignition retarded (=cracked heads), had the wrong oil in it etc etc, any of which could knacker it. On the other hand, another engine might have 200K on the clock, but has not suffered any of the afore mentioned and be just fine.

The only way to be sure is to check it. If you are not sure how to, take someone (off here ?) along. Checks include, oil pressure (hot), compression, crank end float, any signs of coolant leaks from the head to case joins (past or present), the look of the coolant (looking for K-Seal or oil etc). Then the sound it makes when running, is it smooth and quiet? etc etc.

Remember, the engine is far less important than the condition of the bodywork on these vans. Engines can easily be replaced, curing rusty seams and panels is a different matter

[neomoniker]

Thanks for the advice. I've owned and part restored a few cars over the years so that all makes sense.
I'm in Edinburgh but all the best T25/T3s currently for sale are miles away!

[dbz864]

where ever you live the good ones are always miles away!

[Ant-t]

As above, be prepared to travel for a good one