Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

1
Hi all,

Great resource you have here!

I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested introducing myself on the forum.

My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which isnt many!).

After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.

So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare underpants!

Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.

I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be satisfied!

So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?

Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?

Sorry for such a long post!

Andrew
2
Forgot to ask, what are the main things to look for when buying a syncro? Common faults/rust etc?

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "awbeattie381" <awbeattie381@...> wrote:
>
> Hi all,
>
> Great resource you have here!
>
> I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested introducing myself on the forum.
>
> My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which isnt many!).
>
> After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.
>
> So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare underpants!
>
> Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.
>
> I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be satisfied!
>
> So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?
>
> Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?
>
> Sorry for such a long post!
>
> Andrew
>
3

Andrew,

There are a lot of knowledgeable Syncro people in and around Sydney, many of whom will respond to your request. 

I would suggest that you initially ask Phill Lander if you can go to his place and look at his fleet; you will learn a great deal in as short time!!

Mark Kofahl (who owns the syncro.com.au website) also has a fleet and you would also learn from him.

The Trakka conversion is about the best of what is available for the T3 but be warned that the Trakka wiring is a disgrace to all of Australia – but it can be fixed.  Phill can add a lot more about that!

You have a lot to learn but you also have plenty of help available here.

Les

 

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of awbeattie381
Sent: 29 February 2012 15:06
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

Forgot to ask, what are the main things to look for when buying a syncro? Common faults/rust etc?

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "awbeattie381" <awbeattie381@...> wrote:

>
> Hi all,
>
> Great resource you have here!
>
> I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested
introducing myself on the forum.
>

4
These should help

http://www.vwcamperguide.com/html/vw_t3_buyers_guide.html


Philippe

On 29 February 2012 12:06, awbeattie381 <awbeattie381@yahoo.com.au> wrote:

Forgot to ask, what are the main things to look for when buying a syncro? Common faults/rust etc?

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "awbeattie381" <awbeattie381@...> wrote:
>
> Hi all,
>
> Great resource you have here!
>
> I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested introducing myself on the forum.
>
> My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which isnt many!).
>
> After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.
>
> So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare underpants!
>
> Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.
>
> I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be satisfied!
>
> So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?
>
> Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?
>
> Sorry for such a long post!
>
> Andrew
>




--
Philippe Tyack
Mobile:+61450059162
5
Andrew, first lesson is be prepared to travel to find a good one. Did you see the cracker in SA on a recent post? Greg E

From: awbeattie381 <awbeattie381@yahoo.com.au>
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Sent: Wednesday, 29 February 2012 2:11 PM
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

 
Hi all,

Great resource you have here!

I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested introducing myself on the forum.

My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which isnt many!).

After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.

So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare underpants!

Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.

I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be satisfied!

So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?

Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?

Sorry for such a long post!

Andrew



6

 

 

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Philippe Tyack
Sent: 29 February 2012 16:20
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: Re: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

 

 

These should help

 

http://www.vwcamperguide.com/html/vw_t3_buyers_guide.html 

 

Philippe: This is excellent and many thanks for posting it.

Andrew: We have few rust problems in Australia because of the dry climate and because salt is not spread on roads to combat ice.  Note that the Westfalia was never available in Australia.

 

http://users.rcn.com/derekdrew/vanagon/viscous_couplings_vanagon_syncro.htm 

 

Andrew: Derek Drew is one of the very few authorities on the Syncro.

 

Philippe

 

_,_._,___

7
Thanks Les, will keep those contacts in mind. I am looking forward to learning everything I can about these vans.

I had to laugh about your comment on the wiring...I assume trakka have pulled their fingers out with the newer models and learned a lot from their earlier work!

Andrew

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Les Harris" <leslieharris@...> wrote:
>
> Andrew,
>
> There are a lot of knowledgeable Syncro people in and around Sydney, many of
> whom will respond to your request.
>
> I would suggest that you initially ask Phill Lander if you can go to his
> place and look at his fleet; you will learn a great deal in as short time!!
>
> Mark Kofahl (who owns the syncro.com.au website) also has a fleet and you
> would also learn from him.
>
> The Trakka conversion is about the best of what is available for the T3 but
> be warned that the Trakka wiring is a disgrace to all of Australia - but it
> can be fixed. Phill can add a lot more about that!
>
> You have a lot to learn but you also have plenty of help available here.
>
> Les
>
>
>
> _____
>
> From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of awbeattie381
> Sent: 29 February 2012 15:06
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro
>
> Forgot to ask, what are the main things to look for when buying a syncro?
> Common faults/rust etc?
>
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> <mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia%40yahoogroups.com> , "awbeattie381"
> <awbeattie381@> wrote:
> >
> > Hi all,
> >
> > Great resource you have here!
> >
> > I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested
> introducing myself on the forum.
> >
>
8
Philippe those links will be extremely useful. Thanks for posting!

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, Philippe Tyack <philtyack@...> wrote:
>
> These should help
>
> http://www.vwcamperguide.com/html/vw_t3_buyers_guide.html
>
> http://users.rcn.com/derekdrew/vanagon/viscous_couplings_vanagon_syncro.htm
>
> Philippe
>
> On 29 February 2012 12:06, awbeattie381 <awbeattie381@...> wrote:
>
> > **
> >
> >
> > Forgot to ask, what are the main things to look for when buying a syncro?
> > Common faults/rust etc?
> >
> > --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "awbeattie381" <awbeattie381@>
> > wrote:
> > >
> > > Hi all,
> > >
> > > Great resource you have here!
> > >
> > > I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested
> > introducing myself on the forum.
> > >
> > > My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years
> > time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for
> > touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a
> > Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which
> > isnt many!).
> > >
> > > After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife
> > and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the
> > Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can
> > become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to
> > Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for
> > Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.
> > >
> > > So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top
> > campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however
> > most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a
> > bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the
> > fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back.
> > Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare
> > underpants!
> > >
> > > Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I
> > didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt
> > believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.
> > >
> > > I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be
> > happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be
> > satisfied!
> > >
> > > So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see
> > these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road
> > etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in
> > the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?
> > >
> > > Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?
> > >
> > > Sorry for such a long post!
> > >
> > > Andrew
> > >
> >
> >
> >
>
>
>
> --
> Philippe Tyack
> Mobile:+61450059162
>
9
Yes I saw that one! It was amazing! If it came up in a few months time (following some research and with some available funds) I would have been on the next plane to Adelaide! It was exactly what I am after...

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, greg esposito <gregespo73@...> wrote:
>
> Andrew, first lesson is be prepared to travel to find a good one. Did you see the cracker in SA on a recent post? Greg E
>
>
>
> ________________________________
> From: awbeattie381 <awbeattie381@...>
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Sent: Wednesday, 29 February 2012 2:11 PM
> Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro
>
>
>
> Â
>
> Hi all,
>
> Great resource you have here!
>
> I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested introducing myself on the forum.
>
> My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which isnt many!).
>
> After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.
>
> So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare underpants!
>
> Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.
>
> I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be satisfied!
>
> So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?
>
> Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?
>
> Sorry for such a long post!
>
> Andrew
>
10

Not sure about the later Trakka conversions but the T3 was an absolute shocker.  They had one giant drum of two core flex that they used for everything, they used piercing connectors throughout and nothing is identified!!

I do have a diagram if you finish up with a Trakka.

A conducted tour of several Syncros is as valuable as the references that Philippe supplied and you use each in conjunction with the other.

Les

 

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of awbeattie381
Sent: 29 February 2012 17:23
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

 

 Thanks Les, will keep those contacts in mind. I am looking forward to learning everything I can about these vans.

I had to laugh about your comment on the wiring...I assume trakka have pulled their fingers out with the newer models and learned a lot from their earlier work!

Andrew,___

11
Andy,there is a bit of a crew heading from Harts garage to Valla in early August.Hopefully you might be able to join us.
BenC

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "awbeattie381" <awbeattie381@...> wrote:
>
> Hi all,
>
> Great resource you have here!
>
> I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested introducing myself on the forum.
>
> My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which isnt many!).
>
> After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.
>
> So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare underpants!
>
> Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.
>
> I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be satisfied!
>
> So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?
>
> Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?
>
> Sorry for such a long post!
>
> Andrew
>
12

Andrew,

Book now!!  You will learn more in one weekend than in a year elsewhere.  And take your wife.

Les 

 

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ben
Sent: 29 February 2012 18:52
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

 

 

Andy,there is a bit of a crew heading from Harts garage to Valla in early August.Hopefully you might be able to join us.
BenC

_._,___

13
Hi Andrew

welcome to the group. You're welcome to drop over and say g'day and check out the Camper. I was camping in it on the Wollondilly River last weekend and loved it (although this weekend would not look good given the Flood warnings for the Wollondilly - this river runs into Warragamba Dam, which supplies Sydney) - I've attached an image.

Where abouts in Sydney are you?

Regards
Mark.





On Wed, Feb 29, 2012 at 6:56 PM, Les Harris <leslieharris@optusnet.com.au> wrote:

Andrew,

Book now!! You will learn more in one weekend than in a year elsewhere. And take your wife.

Les

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ben
Sent: 29 February 2012 18:52


To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

Andy,there is a bit of a crew heading from Harts garage to Valla in early August.Hopefully you might be able to join us.
BenC

_._,___


14
Hi Andrew,

Where in Sydney are you?

Feel free to contact me if you want to come over for a chat;
plander@optusnet.com.au

http://members.ozemail.com.au/~pjlander/volkswagen_syncro.htm

Phill



> awbeattie381 <awbeattie381@yahoo.com.au> wrote:
>
> Hi all,
>
> Great resource you have here!
>
> I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested
> introducing myself on the forum.
>
> My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years
> time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for
> touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of
> a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible
> (which isnt many!).
>
> After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife
> and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of
> the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping
> style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was
> Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping
> except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.
>
> So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top
> campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender,
> however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a
> backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition,
> I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight
> in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would
> require many spare underpants!
>
> Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I
> didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt
> believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.
>
> I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be
> happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be
> satisfied!
>
> So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see
> these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road
> etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in
> the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?
>
> Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?
>
> Sorry for such a long post!
>
> Andrew
15
Book the both of us in! How do I book?? I am still trying to get used to where everything is!

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "Les Harris" <leslieharris@...> wrote:
>
> Andrew,
>
> Book now!! You will learn more in one weekend than in a year elsewhere.
> And take your wife.
>
> Les
>
>
>
> _____
>
> From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ben
> Sent: 29 February 2012 18:52
> To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro
>
>
>
>
>
> Andy,there is a bit of a crew heading from Harts garage to Valla in early
> August.Hopefully you might be able to join us.
> BenC
>
> _._,___
>
16
Mark,

For some reason I cannot view images on this forum... Not sure why?

You are lucky to have been camping last weekend - it was beautiful weather.

I am located in Leichhardt but am happy to visit wherever you may be - thanks for the offer. Ill contact you separately via email.

Andrew

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, Mark Kofahl <markkofahl@...> wrote:
>
> Hi Andrew
>
> welcome to the group. You're welcome to drop over and say g'day and check
> out the Camper. I was camping in it on the Wollondilly River last weekend
> and loved it (although this weekend would not look good given the Flood
> warnings for the Wollondilly - this river runs into Warragamba Dam, which
> supplies Sydney) - I've attached an image.
>
> Where abouts in Sydney are you?
>
> Regards
> Mark.
>
>
>
>
>
> On Wed, Feb 29, 2012 at 6:56 PM, Les Harris <leslieharris@...>wrote:
>
> > **
> >
> >
> > Andrew,****
> >
> > Book now!! You will learn more in one weekend than in a year elsewhere.
> > And take your wife.****
> >
> > Les ****
> >
> > ** **
> > ------------------------------
> >
> > *From:* Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:
> > Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] *On Behalf Of *Ben
> > *Sent:* 29 February 2012 18:52
> >
> > *To:* Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
> > *Subject:* [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro
> > ****
> >
> > ** **
> >
> > ****
> >
> > Andy,there is a bit of a crew heading from Harts garage to Valla in early
> > August.Hopefully you might be able to join us.
> > BenC
> >
> > _._,___****
> >
> >
> >
>
17
Hi Phill,

A saw your website before joining the forum. Neat bus you have there! Very impressive.

Thanks for the offer of a chat. Ill send you an email.

I am located in Leichhardt but am happy to travel anywehere.

Andrew

--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, plander@... wrote:
>
> Hi Andrew,
>
> Where in Sydney are you?
>
> Feel free to contact me if you want to come over for a chat;
> plander@...
>
> http://members.ozemail.com.au/~pjlander/volkswagen_syncro.htm
>
> Phill
>
>
>
> > awbeattie381 <awbeattie381@...> wrote:
> >
> > Hi all,
> >
> > Great resource you have here!
> >
> > I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested
> > introducing myself on the forum.
> >
> > My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years
> > time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for
> > touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of
> > a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible
> > (which isnt many!).
> >
> > After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife
> > and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of
> > the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping
> > style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was
> > Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping
> > except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.
> >
> > So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top
> > campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender,
> > however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a
> > backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition,
> > I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight
> > in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would
> > require many spare underpants!
> >
> > Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I
> > didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt
> > believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.
> >
> > I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be
> > happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be
> > satisfied!
> >
> > So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see
> > these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road
> > etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in
> > the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?
> >
> > Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?
> >
> > Sorry for such a long post!
> >
> > Andrew
>
18

Andrew,

You have to use direct email to view images – images can’t be viewed when you are reading posts on the Yahoo forum itself.  We used to be able to in the early days but Yahoo changed that.  For example, Mark Kofahl attached a pic of the Wollondilly.  If you are getting the group emails sent to your Inbox, you can open it.  If you are reading the emails on the Yahoo home page, it doesn’t appear.

Les

From: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com [mailto:Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of awbeattie381
Sent: 01 March 2012 09:43
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Re: Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

 

Mark,
For some reason I cannot view images on this forum... Not sure why?
Andrew

19
Hello Andrew,
 
welcome to Syncro world. Can I ask what price they are asking for the syncro you saw in sydney? was it a camper? what colour is the syncro?
 
Thanks,
 
Leighton
 
To: Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com
From: awbeattie381@yahoo.com.au
Date: Wed, 29 Feb 2012 03:11:32 +0000
Subject: [Syncro_T3_Australia] Newbie seeking a pop top Syncro

 
Hi all,

Great resource you have here!

I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested introducing myself on the forum.

My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which isnt many!).

After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.

So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare underpants!

Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.

I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be satisfied!

So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?

Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?

Sorry for such a long post!

Andrew


20
Hi all,

Thought I would drop you a line to give you a bit of an update on the planning stages of our big 6 month lap of oz in 2014.

After doing the sums and working out the pros and cons of a syncro, I have decided to keep my Pajero and buy a Jayco/Goldstream `camper trailer' – the wind up style which are a cross between a caravan and a traditional camper trailer.

We felt that towing a camper would give us a little more freedom, space and luxury during our 6 month lap than a campervan (of any make) would give us. In addition, my Pajero is in excellent condition and has been slowly modified for outback travel over the last 10 years – lift, bullbar, long range tank, roof console, roofracks, snorkel, HD towbar, dual batteries, radios etc etc. It didn't make financial sense to sell it for bugger all and buy a campervan (for this trip anyway).

A special thank you to Phill for his time, advice and DVDs he has given me, and letting me spend some time admiring his amazing syncro. Also thanks to Les for responding to my million and 1 questions!

For now I will just have to admire Syncros from a distance! I will however continue to check out the photos from your trips though on the aussie syncro website!

Andrew


--- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "awbeattie381" <awbeattie381@...> wrote:
>
> Forgot to ask, what are the main things to look for when buying a syncro? Common faults/rust etc?
>
> --- In Syncro_T3_Australia@yahoogroups.com, "awbeattie381" <awbeattie381@> wrote:
> >
> > Hi all,
> >
> > Great resource you have here!
> >
> > I have been chatting to Les for the last day or so and he has suggested introducing myself on the forum.
> >
> > My wife and I have decided to do a lap around the country in 2 years time. We currently have a 1989 V6 Pajero which has been kitted out for touring. I have owned it for 10 years now and love it. We are members of a Sydney based 4wd club and try and attend as many trips as possible (which isnt many!).
> >
> > After a couple of campervan road trips over the last few years my wife and I have been hooked on those experiences. She isnt a massive fan of the Paj, she finds it uncomfortable and the '1 night move on' camping style can become tiresome fast. Our last big road trip in the Paj was Sydney to Cairns and back over 5 weeks and was mainly 1 night camping except for Cairns, Fraser Island and Byron Bay.
> >
> > So for the last few years I have looked on an off at 4wd pop top campervans. The 1980s L300 4wd Express Van was the main contender, however most I found on the internet were bomby, rusty, or setup in a backyard by a bunch of backpackers. They also looked small! In addition, I didnt like the fact that you are sitting on the engine with no weight in the back. Attempting a steep decent on a rough fire trail would require many spare underpants!
> >
> > Only last week I was made aware of a Syncro Van for sale locally. I didnt see it first hand but I immediately began researching. I didnt believe they were a true 4wd until I watched A LOT of you tube videos.
> >
> > I was immediately hooked. My wife would be happy in a camper. I would be happy in a capable 4wd pop top van. I didnt think we could both be satisfied!
> >
> > So now the more serious research begins. I would really like to see these vans first hand, see how they drive, see how they perform off road etc. so my first question is whether there are any NSW events planned in the near future? Either show and shine or day/weekend trips?
> >
> > Is there anyone with a pop top in Sydney I could visit and chat with?
> >
> > Sorry for such a long post!
> >
> > Andrew
> >
>