The problem I see with the VW bus (Vanagon too?) is the close proximity of the fuel tank to the engine and the gravity fed fuel system. Most of the modern cars I have worked on have the fuel pump in the tank and the fuel gets pumped out of the top of the tank so if a fuel line pops off, the fuel flow stops. If the fuel line pops off the VW Bus tank (or really anywhere in the system) the bus simply dumps the entire tank of gas on the ground. So the Vanagon is the same? If there is a fire there the fire gets to burn all that fuel and the vehicle. Of course there is all the interior upholstery above the engine too waiting to help the fire move inside the bus. Dangerous design? IMHO not the worst but far from the best. On my '78 I plan to add an electric fuel valve that is normally closed and will open only with the ignition. Less than $50. It's a fuel rated solenoid valve. I don't have the manufacturer's name on hand but I could get it for you. It is in the archives either at Vanagon.com or Type2.com as this info was in a discussion once upon a time. Got a fuel fire? Turn the key off (or flip a switch off or whatever version you want to build). Also good theft proofing... At least then the fire can fought without 10 gallons of gasoline helping it along. At least then you are trying to extinguish a bit of oil or plastic and not a bunch of gasoline. I'd also ditch that plastic engine cover some Vanagons come with. Just helps the fire get inside the vehicle once it melts. I looked at a nice '78 85K mile Riviera camper belonging to a friend a few weeks ago. It has the OEM fuel lines on it from 1978! How many other VW's (how many old cars in general?) suffer from 20-30 year old fuel lines? FWIW I warned that friend... Good luck in your search for another ride. Don't worry about the VW's safety. I think it is fine for adults who can jump out in case of emergency. I do however have issues with this type of emergency with babies and toddlers strapped to their car seats and dependent on an adult to free them in case of a fire or collision... Change those fuel lines annually!
Chris M. in TN |
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