this 1985 VW T3 Trakka recently came through the workshop with a very common issue — coolant leaking from the RHS cylinder head.
If you’ve been around T3s long enough, you’ll know this is one of the typical ageing points. Rather than patching it up, the goal was to properly sort the van so it could be driven and enjoyed without the usual “sorting phase” that comes with most classic campers.
You can view the full listing and vehicle details here for this VW T3 Campervan For Sale
Cooling system and engine reliability
Cooling is everything on a T3. When these systems aren’t right, reliability suffers quickly.
To address the issue properly, the van underwent major mechanical work focused on long-term reliability:
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Replacement engine fitted
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New radiator
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New thermostat
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Full cooling system flush
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Coolant flow checked and verified
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System pressure-tested and checked for leaks
This wasn’t about a quick fix — it was about making sure the vehicle could be driven confidently on long trips without constantly worrying about overheating.
Fuel system refresh — another known T3 weak point
Older T3s often suffer from dirty fuel issues, commonly caused by ageing tanks and breather systems allowing contamination into the system.
Preventative work completed:
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Fuel filter replaced
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Fuel lines replaced
This ensures consistent fuel delivery and removes another common reliability problem seen in these vans.
Servicing and road-ready preparation
Beyond the major mechanical work, the van was serviced and checked thoroughly so it’s ready to be used as intended:
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New oil and filter
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New distributor cap and rotor arm
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New battery
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Brakes checked
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Tyres inspected
The focus was simple: make sure everything is sorted so the next owner can get in and drive, not spend months fixing small issues.
Body and interior brought back to life
These vans are as much about feel as they are mechanics.
To bring it back to a clean, honest condition:
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Minor rust repairs completed
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Paint rejuvenated
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Interior fully cleaned and detailed
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Front seat replaced
It still presents as an original vehicle, just refreshed and cared for rather than over-restored.
Original Trakka camper interior
One of the best parts of this van is that it remains true to its roots.
Factory Trakka camper setup includes:
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Sink
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Fridge
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Stove
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Rock-n-roll bed
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Pop-top with additional sleeping space for two
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Seating for five
Simple, practical, and exactly how these vans were meant to be used.
What this job represents
This wasn’t just preparing a van for sale — it’s a good example of how we approach older Volkswagens in general.
We focus on:
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Fixing known weak points
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Preventative maintenance
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Reliability over quick cosmetic wins
Because when cooling, fuel, ignition, and safety systems are sorted properly, these vans become what they were designed to be — dependable touring vehicles.
Ready for its next trip
With mechanical work completed, body tidied, interior refreshed, and roadworthiness checked, this T3 is ready to go.
No projects.
No “needs sorting.”
Just a classic camper that you can jump into and head off on a road trip.
And that’s exactly how it should be.