My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

1
Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 
2
Roger, she is a beauty I may have to invite myself round for a cup of Tea and a squizz. 

I thought you were going to get a T5 auto?

Gary Cookson



On 22/02/2011, at 2:49 PM, Roger Bell wrote:

 

Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 

<IMG_6055.JPG><IMG_6064.JPG><IMG_6065.JPG><IMG_5515.JPG>

3
A viscous coupling, eh? Where would we be without your little quips, Roger? Uncanny that the other Roger should have exactly the same vehicle! Two RBs in their silver RVs - that could certainly add to the confusion.
Actually, I thought I was seeing double as I happened to cruise past Roger's place today and spied him admiring his new purchase, parked behind the old (no hanky panky at that point), but was given the privilege of a guided tour. It's certainly worth checking out, Gary, although Roger's head was already exploding with the genesis of another Syncro 'to do' list. So jealous of that overhead airconditioning, though!
Francesca.
On 22 February 2011 14:59, Gary Cookson <gary@twentytwentyone.net> wrote:

Roger, she is a beauty I may have to invite myself round for a cup of Tea and a squizz.


I thought you were going to get a T5 auto?

Gary Cookson



On 22/02/2011, at 2:49 PM, Roger Bell wrote:

Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
Cheers
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell

<IMG_6055.JPG><IMG_6064.JPG><IMG_6065.JPG><IMG_5515.JPG>


4
But hang on, wasn't that Graham Adams in the shiny silver Syncro in the photo?

Francesca.

On 22 February 2011 15:17, Francesca Coles <fcoles6@gmail.com> wrote:
A viscous coupling, eh? Where would we be without your little quips, Roger? Uncanny that the other Roger should have exactly the same vehicle! Two RBs in their silver RVs - that could certainly add to the confusion.
Actually, I thought I was seeing double as I happened to cruise past Roger's place today and spied him admiring his new purchase, parked behind the old (no hanky panky at that point), but was given the privilege of a guided tour. It's certainly worth checking out, Gary, although Roger's head was already exploding with the genesis of another Syncro 'to do' list. So jealous of that overhead airconditioning, though!
Francesca.
On 22 February 2011 14:59, Gary Cookson <gary@twentytwentyone.net> wrote:

Roger, she is a beauty I may have to invite myself round for a cup of Tea and a squizz.


I thought you were going to get a T5 auto?

Gary Cookson



On 22/02/2011, at 2:49 PM, Roger Bell wrote:

Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
Cheers
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell

<IMG_6055.JPG><IMG_6064.JPG><IMG_6065.JPG><IMG_5515.JPG>



5
Roger,
 
Very tasty bus you have there. Love the long range tank (I have a leaky version of that which I am going to replace before fitting) - 800km range sounds great.
 
The other silver syncro in your last photo is Graeme Adams who has a transporter deluxe van which has the rear diff-lock but not your cosy well seated interior. Graeme provided those fantastic photos of the gear lever.
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Roger Bell
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2011 2:49 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 

Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 

6
Very nice Roger!!
 
Am just a little bit jealous.  My mind has been riding a roller coaster lately.  Had my eye on the other silver Caravelle up for sale recently but was too slow and missed out.  I had even convinced the bossy one to let me buy it on the condition that I sold one of my other vehicles.  In a way it was a relief since I didn't have to make that impossible decision.  After that I decided to stick with what I have and stop looking around but you have just rekindled my desire.  Doh! 
 
What that Caravelle needs is a good test run...........Kimberleys..............??
 
Neil.

From: Roger Bell <bellrmit@yahoo.com.au>
To: Syncro Aust Group <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Tue, 22 February, 2011 2:49:36 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 

Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 


 
7
Yes Skot, the photos really demonstrated what a good illustration should do.
Thank you and Francesca for pointing out that I had Graeme rather than Roger. I think my aircraft type a/c is giving me jet lag.perhaps because it needs regassing.. Sorry fellows - having worked in China for a while you blokes with beards and silver syncros all look the same to me although I have attached some Roger Beetle photos to make amends and try to excuse my mistake. The scary part is I really do have a twin brother named Graham which could set me off again but as George Burns used to say " Say goodnight Gracie"
 
Roger.
 


--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com> wrote:

From: Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 1:38 PM

 
Roger,
 
Very tasty bus you have there. Love the long range tank (I have a leaky version of that which I am going to replace before fitting) - 800km range sounds great.
 
The other silver syncro in your last photo is Graeme Adams who has a transporter deluxe van which has the rear diff-lock but not your cosy well seated interior. Graeme provided those fantastic photos of the gear lever.
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Roger Bell
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2011 2:49 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 
Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 

 
8
Skot
The auxillary tank was really well done. It uses the 2WD spot for the filler which has a cap which shares its key with the other tank and the ignition.It has its own VDO fuel gauge set into the dash and a switch to determine which tank is being pumped from. If you need any photos to help your installation please ask..
Roger

--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com> wrote:

From: Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 1:38 PM

 
Roger,
 
Very tasty bus you have there. Love the long range tank (I have a leaky version of that which I am going to replace before fitting) - 800km range sounds great.
 
The other silver syncro in your last photo is Graeme Adams who has a transporter deluxe van which has the rear diff-lock but not your cosy well seated interior. Graeme provided those fantastic photos of the gear lever.
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Roger Bell
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2011 2:49 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 
Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 

 
9
By all means pop round. I'm not saying its perfect and getting the RWC may bring a shock but with hindsight it was certainly a good decision.Doing.It opens up a few diffferent possibilities for me  (Mark K. suggested I keep it in my back lane and try to convince my wife I've still only got one syncro) Perhaps I should ship it back to England to show them what a rust free 20yo syncro is like.There may yet still be a DSG in my future.
Cheers
Roger

--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Gary Cookson <gary@twentytwentyone.net> wrote:

From: Gary Cookson <gary@twentytwentyone.net>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 11:59 AM

 
Roger, she is a beauty I may have to invite myself round for a cup of Tea and a squizz. 

I thought you were going to get a T5 auto?

Gary Cookson



On 22/02/2011, at 2:49 PM, Roger Bell wrote:

 
Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 
<IMG_6055.JPG><IMG_6064.JPG><IMG_6065.JPG><IMG_5515.JPG>


 
10
Well done Roger. You have proved yourself as  a true Syncro nutter. You have gone from selling syncro to buying T5 and ended up back in the fold with two lovely buses. Does this mean our twin girls now have a big brother? Greg E

--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Roger Bell <bellrmit@yahoo.com.au> wrote:

From: Roger Bell <bellrmit@yahoo.com.au>
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: "Syncro Aust Group" <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 2:49 PM

 
Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 

 
11
Kimberleys???? Now who's talking of rekindling desire. Managed to get some photos off to Mark for his museum trip. They were predominately of our trip to Cape York.
As the Weavers song used to go "Wasn't that a time"
Think my camper would be the better vehicle for  the Kimberlys but would be tempted to swap drivers seats with the caravelle..
 
Cheers
 
Roger

--- On Tue, 22/2/11, neil smith <jackthebearau@yahoo.com> wrote:

From: neil smith <jackthebearau@yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 1:51 PM

 
Very nice Roger!!
 
Am just a little bit jealous.  My mind has been riding a roller coaster lately.  Had my eye on the other silver Caravelle up for sale recently but was too slow and missed out.  I had even convinced the bossy one to let me buy it on the condition that I sold one of my other vehicles.  In a way it was a relief since I didn't have to make that impossible decision.  After that I decided to stick with what I have and stop looking around but you have just rekindled my desire.  Doh! 
 
What that Caravelle needs is a good test run...........Kimberleys..............??
 
Neil.

From: Roger Bell <bellrmit@yahoo.com.au>
To: Syncro Aust Group <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Tue, 22 February, 2011 2:49:36 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 
Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 

 

 
12

Roger,
 
Any photos would be great, although the installation of this will probably need to wait until the end of the year.
 
The Syncro - the never ending project.
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Roger Bell
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2011 6:40 PM
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 

Skot
The auxillary tank was really well done. It uses the 2WD spot for the filler which has a cap which shares its key with the other tank and the ignition.It has its own VDO fuel gauge set into the dash and a switch to determine which tank is being pumped from. If you need any photos to help your installation please ask..
Roger

--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com> wrote:

From: Mr Scott Pitcher <spbconsulting@bigpond.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 1:38 PM

 
Roger,
 
Very tasty bus you have there. Love the long range tank (I have a leaky version of that which I am going to replace before fitting) - 800km range sounds great.
 
The other silver syncro in your last photo is Graeme Adams who has a transporter deluxe van which has the rear diff-lock but not your cosy well seated interior. Graeme provided those fantastic photos of the gear lever.
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Roger Bell
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2011 2:49 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 
Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 

 

13
Hi Roger,   congrats , it looks like a wonderful bulli --caravelle...can I bring my cute little trakkaline down for a romantic viscous cuddling ? What do you charge ?
On the other hand, if you bring him up, I charge your a/c air/con for free !            Well done Roger  Hartmut
 

 
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
From: bellrmit@yahoo.com.au
Date: Tue, 22 Feb 2011 01:14:46 -0800
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 
Kimberleys???? Now who's talking of rekindling desire. Managed to get some photos off to Mark for his museum trip. They were predominately of our trip to Cape York.
As the Weavers song used to go "Wasn't that a time"
Think my camper would be the better vehicle for  the Kimberlys but would be tempted to swap drivers seats with the caravelle..
 
Cheers
 
Roger

--- On Tue, 22/2/11, neil smith <jackthebearau@yahoo.com> wrote:

From: neil smith <jackthebearau@yahoo.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 1:51 PM

 
Very nice Roger!!
 
Am just a little bit jealous.  My mind has been riding a roller coaster lately.  Had my eye on the other silver Caravelle up for sale recently but was too slow and missed out.  I had even convinced the bossy one to let me buy it on the condition that I sold one of my other vehicles.  In a way it was a relief since I didn't have to make that impossible decision.  After that I decided to stick with what I have and stop looking around but you have just rekindled my desire.  Doh! 
 
What that Caravelle needs is a good test run...........Kimberleys..............??
 
Neil.

From: Roger Bell <bellrmit@yahoo.com.au>
To: Syncro Aust Group <syncro_t3_australia@yahoogroups.com>
Sent: Tue, 22 February, 2011 2:49:36 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.

 
Thought some people might like a look at the "new" 1991 Syncro T3 Caravelle GL I flew to Adelaide for on Sunday after buying it sight unseen , no guarantees on Thursday morning. There were quite a few anxious moments in between as unfortunately the potential for being scammed is substantial and may have actually  occured to another of our members.
Some nice options are the genuine VW aircraft type a/c, long range tank (Did the 800 K without refueling) auxillary rear heater,rear diff lock plus usual GL touches. Even came with plumbed in Nokia phone plus the relatively low 134,000 KMs "mileage". Needs a bit of TLC including Ken's wobbly gear lever magic
 
I've put it with my Syncro camper and hope they will mate - viscous coupling?
 
Roger Beetle - I really didn't buy it to make it even more confusing on getting the real RB with the silver caravelle to stand up please.(see last photo) If you remove your roof racks and beard we're totally done for.
 
Oh and the high tech break through? As the new one does not have anywhere to put one's free Macseniors coffee and it must not be spilt on the carpet, in an amazing flash of insight I realised that removing the ash tray (shame on you if you need it) provides a cut out that safely secures said coffee whilst driving.
 
Don't tell me that Australians couldn't put a synro on the moon.
 
Cheers
 
Very happy Roger (coffee to go) Bell
 
 

 

 

 
14
As they say in CB lingo, "Roger that."

Did he have anything to do with inventing telephones?

Sorry, I couldn't resist. As a former phone guy, your brother's name 'rings' a certain chord.

"G'night, George."


BenT
(fresh from a hairy snow trip sans Syncro)

On Feb 21, 2011, at 11:10 PM, Roger Bell <bellrmit@yahoo.com.au> wrote:

> The scary part is I really do have a twin brother named Graham
15
Congrats Roger,

A carpenter working with me was onto that caravelle within an hour of it being listed and had an offer on the table.
He has heard me raving on about syncro's for months now and has caught the bug.
He asked if it was a good deal and I told him to buy immediately.
Well done swift Roger it must have always been heading to your garage.
Looks like a beauty.
I'm glad it went to someone in the group.

Paul Dumais
16
Thanks Paul
I am particularly pleased as it was just at a tipping point to be conserved  or go rapidly down hill.. I'm guessing its been intelligently added to and serviced for about 16 of its 20 years and 2 owners but had not been cared for recently with eg the a/c knobs missing, bits of trim left unstuck, headrest lost screws missing etc etc. The engine is covered in red dust which leaves me wondering where the previous owner "only used it to take the kids to school". I hope to try to get some more background on it, plus will have to do some work to get it Vic registered. If I'm not boring people I'll keep them informed on work in progress which seems to describe most of our vehicles except perhaps Phil's. He even seems to keep the kangaroo that parks in front of it in showroom condition..
 
Went through my collection of T3 syncro articles as I have the original factory brochure and found a "4 Wheeler" Australian article doing a comparison test between a Caravelle GL Syncro,a Tarrago GLS 4WD and a Mitsubishi Starwagon 4WD. The Caravelle got their nod and I quote "The VW Caravelle is the best all-round 4WD people mover.It's not the most stylish,the quietist or the quickest, but it does everything an on/off road people mover should.Those venturing into diff lock country with the VW will embarrass many a square rigged 4WD.Another point in its favour is its ready conversion to a pop top campervan -using the cheaper Kombi Syncro as a base." I do question their statement however that the VC system "is complemented by locking diffs front and rear".Perhaps someone can date the article-I'm guessing 90/91.
II will scanit into the our articles section for those interested.
 
Cheers
 
Roger
 
--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Paul Dumais <paul.d.dumais@gmail.com> wrote:

From: Paul Dumais <paul.d.dumais@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 7:10 PM

 
Congrats Roger,

A carpenter working with me was onto that caravelle within an hour of it being listed and had an offer on the table.
He has heard me raving on about syncro's for months now and has caught the bug.
He asked if it was a good deal and I told him to buy immediately.
Well done swift Roger it must have always been heading to your garage.
Looks like a beauty.
I'm glad it went to someone in the group.

Paul Dumais

 
17

Thanks Roger.
 
Great article hunting. These articles are gold for me - love reading them.
 
I (many years ago) had a 4wd travel mag that had Hartmuts Tristar in it and it also had a hire syncro vehicle which was a white trakka vehicle owned by a 4wd hire company. This may have been Ken's bus???
 
I cant find it anywhere.
 
Bugger.
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Roger Bell
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2011 11:04 PM
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus comparison test with Tarrago Starwagon and Syncro/

 

Thanks Paul
I am particularly pleased as it was just at a tipping point to be conserved  or go rapidly down hill.. I'm guessing its been intelligently added to and serviced for about 16 of its 20 years and 2 owners but had not been cared for recently with eg the a/c knobs missing, bits of trim left unstuck, headrest lost screws missing etc etc. The engine is covered in red dust which leaves me wondering where the previous owner "only used it to take the kids to school". I hope to try to get some more background on it, plus will have to do some work to get it Vic registered. If I'm not boring people I'll keep them informed on work in progress which seems to describe most of our vehicles except perhaps Phil's. He even seems to keep the kangaroo that parks in front of it in showroom condition..
 
Went through my collection of T3 syncro articles as I have the original factory brochure and found a "4 Wheeler" Australian article doing a comparison test between a Caravelle GL Syncro,a Tarrago GLS 4WD and a Mitsubishi Starwagon 4WD. The Caravelle got their nod and I quote "The VW Caravelle is the best all-round 4WD people mover.It's not the most stylish,the quietist or the quickest, but it does everything an on/off road people mover should.Those venturing into diff lock country with the VW will embarrass many a square rigged 4WD.Another point in its favour is its ready conversion to a pop top campervan -using the cheaper Kombi Syncro as a base." I do question their statement however that the VC system "is complemented by locking diffs front and rear".Perhaps someone can date the article-I'm guessing 90/91.
II will scanit into the our articles section for those interested.
 
Cheers
 
Roger
 
--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Paul Dumais <paul.d.dumais@gmail.com> wrote:

From: Paul Dumais <paul.d.dumais@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 7:10 PM

 
Congrats Roger,

A carpenter working with me was onto that caravelle within an hour of it being listed and had an offer on the table.
He has heard me raving on about syncro's for months now and has caught the bug.
He asked if it was a good deal and I told him to buy immediately.
Well done swift Roger it must have always been heading to your garage.
Looks like a beauty.
I'm glad it went to someone in the group.

Paul Dumais

 

18

Very nice unit Roger. Looks the same colour as mine and Hart’s campers. Love the humour about the coupling. I have parked mine alongside Harts a few times and nothing has happened. Stage fright perhaps out at Harts Motors.

 

That tip about the spot for coffee is a gem. The only risk is getting coffee into my new Sony radio/CD but this will just make me drive more carefully.

 

So well done and look forward to seeing it at a Syncro event.

 

Cheers, Peter from Port.

 

19
Hi Bugger (new identity ??) Ken has got those articles, he gave me the Syn Tristar write up. Maybe Phill would have the originals ?? Hart
 
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
From: spbconsulting@bigpond.com
Date: Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:18:42 +1100
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus comparison test with Tarrago Starwagon and Syncro/

 

Thanks Roger.
 
Great article hunting. These articles are gold for me - love reading them.
 
I (many years ago) had a 4wd travel mag that had Hartmuts Tristar in it and it also had a hire syncro vehicle which was a white trakka vehicle owned by a 4wd hire company. This may have been Ken's bus???
 
I cant find it anywhere.
 
Bugger.
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Roger Bell
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2011 11:04 PM
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus comparison test with Tarrago Starwagon and Syncro/

 

Thanks Paul
I am particularly pleased as it was just at a tipping point to be conserved  or go rapidly down hill.. I'm guessing its been intelligently added to and serviced for about 16 of its 20 years and 2 owners but had not been cared for recently with eg the a/c knobs missing, bits of trim left unstuck, headrest lost screws missing etc etc. The engine is covered in red dust which leaves me wondering where the previous owner "only used it to take the kids to school". I hope to try to get some more background on it, plus will have to do some work to get it Vic registered. If I'm not boring people I'll keep them informed on work in progress which seems to describe most of our vehicles except perhaps Phil's. He even seems to keep the kangaroo that parks in front of it in showroom condition..
 
Went through my collection of T3 syncro articles as I have the original factory brochure and found a "4 Wheeler" Australian article doing a comparison test between a Caravelle GL Syncro,a Tarrago GLS 4WD and a Mitsubishi Starwagon 4WD. The Caravelle got their nod and I quote "The VW Caravelle is the best all-round 4WD people mover.It's not the most stylish,the quietist or the quickest, but it does everything an on/off road people mover should.Those venturing into diff lock country with the VW will embarrass many a square rigged 4WD.Another point in its favour is its ready conversion to a pop top campervan -using the cheaper Kombi Syncro as a base." I do question their statement however that the VC system "is complemented by locking diffs front and rear".Perhaps someone can date the article-I'm guessing 90/91.
II will scanit into the our articles section for those interested.
 
Cheers
 
Roger
 
--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Paul Dumais <paul.d.dumais@gmail.com> wrote:

From: Paul Dumais <paul.d.dumais@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 7:10 PM

 
Congrats Roger,

A carpenter working with me was onto that caravelle within an hour of it being listed and had an offer on the table.
He has heard me raving on about syncro's for months now and has caught the bug.
He asked if it was a good deal and I told him to buy immediately.
Well done swift Roger it must have always been heading to your garage.
Looks like a beauty.
I'm glad it went to someone in the group.

Paul Dumais

 

20

Hart,
 
My dad called me that from a very young age.
 
I have been called worse though.
 
Skot
 
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Wednesday, February 23, 2011 12:14 PM
Subject: RE: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus comparison test with Tarrago Starwagon and Syncro/

 

Hi Bugger (new identity ??) Ken has got those articles, he gave me the Syn Tristar write up. Maybe Phill would have the originals ?? Hart
 

To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
From: spbconsulting@bigpond.com
Date: Wed, 23 Feb 2011 08:18:42 +1100
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus comparison test with Tarrago Starwagon and Syncro/

 

Thanks Roger.
 
Great article hunting. These articles are gold for me - love reading them.
 
I (many years ago) had a 4wd travel mag that had Hartmuts Tristar in it and it also had a hire syncro vehicle which was a white trakka vehicle owned by a 4wd hire company. This may have been Ken's bus???
 
I cant find it anywhere.
 
Bugger.
 
Cheers,
 
Skot
 
 
 
----- Original Message -----
From: Roger Bell
Sent: Tuesday, February 22, 2011 11:04 PM
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus comparison test with Tarrago Starwagon and Syncro/

 

Thanks Paul
I am particularly pleased as it was just at a tipping point to be conserved  or go rapidly down hill.. I'm guessing its been intelligently added to and serviced for about 16 of its 20 years and 2 owners but had not been cared for recently with eg the a/c knobs missing, bits of trim left unstuck, headrest lost screws missing etc etc. The engine is covered in red dust which leaves me wondering where the previous owner "only used it to take the kids to school". I hope to try to get some more background on it, plus will have to do some work to get it Vic registered. If I'm not boring people I'll keep them informed on work in progress which seems to describe most of our vehicles except perhaps Phil's. He even seems to keep the kangaroo that parks in front of it in showroom condition..
 
Went through my collection of T3 syncro articles as I have the original factory brochure and found a "4 Wheeler" Australian article doing a comparison test between a Caravelle GL Syncro,a Tarrago GLS 4WD and a Mitsubishi Starwagon 4WD. The Caravelle got their nod and I quote "The VW Caravelle is the best all-round 4WD people mover.It's not the most stylish,the quietist or the quickest, but it does everything an on/off road people mover should.Those venturing into diff lock country with the VW will embarrass many a square rigged 4WD.Another point in its favour is its ready conversion to a pop top campervan -using the cheaper Kombi Syncro as a base." I do question their statement however that the VC system "is complemented by locking diffs front and rear".Perhaps someone can date the article-I'm guessing 90/91.
II will scanit into the our articles section for those interested.
 
Cheers
 
Roger
 
--- On Tue, 22/2/11, Paul Dumais <paul.d.dumais@gmail.com> wrote:

From: Paul Dumais <paul.d.dumais@gmail.com>
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] My new T3 Syncro plus high tech breakthrough.
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Received: Tuesday, 22 February, 2011, 7:10 PM

 
Congrats Roger,

A carpenter working with me was onto that caravelle within an hour of it being listed and had an offer on the table.
He has heard me raving on about syncro's for months now and has caught the bug.
He asked if it was a good deal and I told him to buy immediately.
Well done swift Roger it must have always been heading to your garage.
Looks like a beauty.
I'm glad it went to someone in the group.

Paul Dumais