Description
1979 Volkswagen Palomino conversion 2. 0ltr 4 berth.
114600 miles (may change as in current use)
Original UK RHD, this ultra rare Palomino conversion by Bariban was a top spec luxury conversion made for just one year and thought to be only around 70 produced and only a handful of survivors remain. Most have been painted in other classic VW colours and interiors painted over to modernise.
This version is one of the original Pastellweiss L90D (white) versions produced and has been lovingly restored at great expense with some nice updated touches right down to the reproduced original factory option go faster 70s side stripe vinyl decal (can be easily removed if not to your taste)
A little history
The first Palominos were built by Bariban Motorhomes of Newton Abbot in Devon in 1979-80. They also built the Mercedes Autobahn and the VW Autostrada. The Palomino was a real eye-catcher when it was launched as no other VW bay at that time had such a grand high-top or luxurious interior.
The first of the original Bariban Palominos, based on the 2-litre Type 2s, were produced in 1979. They were designed by Tony Dilnott . The Palomino name came from the MD who had an interest in all things equine. Bariban only converted new bodies, produced in RHD and a few LHD and the only colour Bariban produced was white. The fibreglass roof was made to match that colour. The originals had stylish stick on decal strips (go-faster stripes), classic 70s style with very few survivors today.
The production run was very short because VW stopped producing Type 2s in 1979. However, the design was then adapted for the new VW T25.
I acquired this Palomino JFK in 2009 and began on the classic never ending and deep pockets journey of restoration to bring it up to the standard it is today. The bills far outweigh the asking price!
It is now a super fun, usable classic camper that we have thoroughly enjoyed owning and using over the years. It has been a rock solid and extremely versatile wagon that has been a super reliable, easy to live with camper.
Over the years it has had extensive panel replacement, engine out service work (twice) and a huge list of new parts, panels, welding and professionally painted and finished to a high standard. The upgraded retro luxury velour interior re trim gives a modern twist to the inside and is a happy place to be. Rock solid chassis and all lower sections have been professionally welded and replaced with new metal as required.
A snapshot of the restoration and new parts
new wheel arches tubs and steps
new front panel
new windscreen frame
new underside floor section
all new rain gutters both sides and new rear corners
new inner and outer sills
new engine lid
new full rear quarters complete pair
new rear valance
New bumpers and rubber trims
sliding door inner and outer repair panels
sliding door window trim fabrication
new battery trays
door check straps
sliding door track cover sets
all new door, window, light seals and rubbers all round
extensively professionally wax oiled in all cavities
Full engine out strip down and check
all new posh rod tubes, fuel pump and gaskets, reset valve clearances, oil filter, new plugs, fan belt
new clutch
new starter motor
new fuel pump
new inlet manifold and gaskets and elbows
new heater control pods, riser elbows and heater tubes
heater cables replaced
repaired and painted tin wear
new alternator and regulator
new blower motor and heater hoses
new heat exchangers and exhaust
new engine mounts
new Boge shocks
carb rebuild kits
rolling road engine tune and carb set up
full brake service including, new brake pipes, wheel cylinders, back plates, new brake reservoir
new anti roll bar bushes
new gear shift selector and bushes
new battery and leisure battery/ split charger
240V hook up connector in engine bay
new rear light lenses and seals
new vinyl go faster retro stripe as per factory original style
new windscreen washer jets
4 new tyres, new scissor jack and handle and wheel brace
new period correct number plates
white cork flooring
new glove box lid
new wing mirrors
all new curtains
Blaupunkt radio (not working)
new heater lever set
2 rear lap belts
gas safety check and new gas fitments
original 2 burner gas hob with grill is in excellent order and works a treat. It has been professionally tested and checked although that was a few years ago
new Waeco fridge and new loom
new front spot lights
freshly painted colour coded metallic brown wheels to match the stripe as it was from the factory.
new front kick panel
new petrol locking cap
new badges
new rubber floor mats
all new seat and rear seat foams and all cushions made new as per original style in orange velour
all new carpet in brown as close to original spec
all new wiring/ electrics inc mains sockets and lighting
split charge relay
new sink and electric water pump
new sink cabinet
restored interior including all woodwork veneers and cabinet repairs where necessary and refreshed varnish giving ample storage
all new roof windows and seals
refurbished original rock and roll double bed with additional foam toppers
Notes
Although this rare beast has been extensively restored, please remember it is still essentially a 43 year old VW!
2 pull out bunk beds (original canvas material is clean but shows some discolouration over the years)
Please note you may see areas in the photos that look like the paint has discoloured or rust, please note this is wax oil in the key areas for long term protection.
Classic formica cooking cover and swivel table do shows sings of wear and tear.
Unfortunately it has a small parking scratch to rear wheel arch and coupe of very tiny micro blisters, although hardly visible.
Rev counter not working
Large history file full of all receipts for parts and work completed and some original Palomino sales brochures
The van drives great and has the decent 2. 0ltr air cooled engine so ambles nicely along. Gearbox is all good and a new clutch has been fitted. Brakes all work as they should, steering is nimble, an easy to drive bus, easy to park and navigate around the lanes of Cornwall and cruises nicely along the motorway.
There are a few little areas for improvement but overall its a get in and go camper van thats ready for adventures or equally would make a great quirky additional camper van fleet hire van.
HPI Clear
Although tax and MOT exempt it will come with a fresh MOT prior to delivery
Delivery can be arranged nationwide, worldwide.
Full extensive photo file showing restoration work, old sales brochures and 200+ photos and walk around video available upon request
** Also advertised and available for viewing with the good folks at Resto Haus in North Devon**
** Open to offers or any PX considered, just ask! VW California, Porsche or other interesting classic or modern.
