Calling all you Syncro drivers out there,

Can anyone help out with some advice on what to look for when buyin a syncro? Probably lookin for 1990 model on. Is any model or engine to be avoided, probs to look for ... is 100 000kms long in the tooth, or only just run in?

Just any general tricks an traps for the young player

Hopefully I can avoid my usual form which is to buy a car then be told by everyone "Oh you bought *that* model, HAHAHAHAHAAHAH!!!" :cry

cheers

100,000klms for any T3 is very good....most are around 250,000 + syncro's have hideously expensive transmissions so make sure there are no noises from the trans. Expect upwards of $2500 for a used one if you can find one.
The 2.1L engines are good but check the cylinder heads gaskets for signs of coolant leaks as this is their biggest problem.
Graham

And make sure the coolant is blue, not the green crap that is used so offen, the blue stuff is the genuine VW coolant.
Check if you can that it has been serviced, the coolant should have been changed every 2 years too.

someone said $4.5k to reco the front axle being 4wd and all
I'm sure I read somewhere of an owner who removed the driveshaft to the front axle whilst commuting then refitted when he was going offroad?
marcel

hey there,

all syncros have the same basic drive line, engines ect ( other than the euro diesel models which Aus. didn't get), the options are diff locks, power steering different trim levels eg. caravelle or transporter. Rear diff locks are quite common and are a disirable option as it makes up for lack of suspension articulation, front diff locks are virtually unheard of in australia and only a few came with this option.
As mentioned some of the trans. parts are expensive. With some smart shopping those costs can be reduced considerably,stay away from VW dealerships and shop on line where there are a few dedicated suppliers that offer alot of support to the syncro community.

100,000 k's is as good as they get these days and should give good service to around 180,000 k,s when trans + head gasket probs could start to appear, mines done 240,000k's and the heads are just starting to weep the gear box had its 3-4 slider hub replaced at 187,000k's.
The viscous coupling that acts as the center diff has been as source of great debate as it can and does harden over time causing added stress to the trans. and can cause major problems eg. total destrction if left unchecked.

Check out http://www.syncro.org/ for all the info and links you should need to buff up on syncro stuff.

I've had mine for about three year and drive it every day its been totaly reliable and awsome fun to drive on and off road. learn what to look out for and you shouldn't have too many problems.

Cool,

Thanks all for the pointers, just the good oil I was looking for

If your looking for one contact Vintage in Sydney. Boris has one for sale with a brand new engine. ring 02-9789-1777 if your interested.