Date:         Thu, 7 Jan 2010 15:18:21 -0800
Reply-To:     Andrew Martin <campahvan@EARTHLINK.NET>
Sender:       Vanagon Mailing List <vanagon@gerry.vanagon.com>
From:         Andrew Martin <campahvan@EARTHLINK.NET>
Subject:      Help determining VW single cab value
Content-Type: text/plain; charset="iso-8859-1"

I had the misfortune of being involved in a traffic collision on December
15th while driving my 1985 Transporter single cab.  The other driver ran a
red light but because no witnesses came forward it became and case of their
word against mine.  Washington State Patrol could not determine “fault”
based upon our conflicting statements and did not issue either driver a
citation.  

 

I have no other recourse but to put a collision claim in to my own insurance
company and determining the actual value of my vehicle is required to reach
a fair settlement.  

 

My vehicle is a 1985 Transporter single cab with a factory installed 1.6L TD
engine and 5 speed manual transmission.  The body is in incredibly good
condition but the paint is a bit faded and worn in places.  The only real
rust is minor seam rust behind the rear wheels, a small dot below the fuel
fill port and the lower gussets on the passenger side treasure chest door
frame.  The engine head and IP were both rebuilt just before I purchased it
and in the last 4 years I’ve restored/rebuilt/replaced all the mechanical
systems including a new turbocharger, new intermediate, crank shaft and rod
bearings.  It runs and a drives like a new vehicle and it’s been my very
dependable daily driver.  In October I drove it from the Seattle area to the
Van Café in Santa Cruz and back effortlessly and worry free.  

 

My insurance company has responded to my claim in a way that was very
predictable but completely unacceptable.  Even though I refused their
ridiculous offer, the insurance company is still willing to consider any
documentation I can provide as to the actual value of my vehicle.  

 

I am considering having it professional appraised but if any other single or
double cab owners are willing to share the “documented” value of their
vehicles, it would be very much appreciated at this time.  Links to similar
vehicles for sale would also be appreciated.

 

I’ve read many of the insurance threads in the various VW forums and I will
continue to educate myself regarding the best ways to proceed. 

 

I will be glad to share the end result when the matter has been settled but
for now please reply by p-mail as I really don’t want to start another
insurance thread.

 

Thanks,

 

Andrew

Bainbridge Island WA

ramblinvan@earthlink.net