Suspension upgrade

So, while I've been waiting on the conversion kit. I've been keeping myself busy with other upgrades...
I wanted to rebuild all of the suspension and steering on the camper.
I ordered all new bushings, springs (stock lift), HDX Bilstien shocks, all the goodies needed to do a total rebuild.

This is the difference between the new stock height and the old stock springs. Must have been compressed over the last 38 years.

 Front was a little more difficult than expected, but not too bad.
Replaced the shocks, springs, ball joints, bushings, and tie rods. 
I also had to replace the flexible brake hoses. The original ones were way to far gone.

The rear got the same treatment as the front. All new shocks, springs, bushings and flexible brake hoses.
I also added a rear spacer on top of the springs to sit it up about an inch higher in the rear.
Overall the rear came together pretty easy. 

Up next I think I'll tackle the front seats...

Let the conversion begins!

Let the conversion begin! 

After months of research and shopping around the local scrapyards I finally came across the engine for us.

This is a Subaru EJ25 out of a 2004 Impreza. It has 165,000 miles on it. After a little refresh with new gaskets and belts it'll be good as new.






I was able to pick up the engine, air intake filter, alternator, ECU, and the fuel filter all for just $960.00! Not too bad. :)

Up next we will be getting the conversion kit
From Smallcar. 
A new radiator and hoses
from Gowesty. 
And the stainless steel coolant
pipes from busdepot.

It'll be a lot of work converting an air-cooled van to a water cooled. But, it'll definitely be worth it in the end.

I'm looking forward to the reliability of the Subaru engine and the power it provides.
Connected to the Vanagon's automatic transmission, this should be an enjoyable drive.