Description
Selling my 1983 VW T25 campervan “Willow” due to relocation. This is a mechanically strong, road-ready van that’s been used and proven — not just polished. She’s just completed a 4, 500-mile round trip through Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, France, and Belgium with zero mechanical issues, even in extreme temperatures and long climbs.
A proper driver’s camper, with the reliable AEY 1. 9 diesel engine and a refurbished DK long-ratio gearbox that makes cruising at 65–70mph comfortable. She starts every time, runs cleanly, and handles long-distance travel with no hesitation.
Mechanical Summary:
-AEY 1. 9D diesel engine (new-used, fitted 2023)
-DK long-ratio gearbox (refurbished pre-ownership)
-Manual transmission
-MOT valid - I'm getting one for this year as I post this for the new buyers peace of mind.
-Classic Car Registered - Road Tax Exempt
-New brakes: brake lines, front pads, rear drums, driver-side caliper (July 2024)
-New timing chain, aux belt, rocker cover gasket (March 2024)
-Oil change: April 2025
-Gearbox oil change: June 2025
-Air & fuel filters: March 2024
All major mechanical areas have been addressed with reliability in mind. The engine runs cleanly and cool even under heavy load. Gear changes are smooth and stable. Braking is sharp and balanced.
Electrical & Camping Features:
-Fully working gas heater
-12V, 230V and gas fridge (currently used on 12V & mains)
-Split-charge leisure battery system (charges automatically)
-Cabin & interior lights, USB ports, and auxiliary electrics all functional
-Bluetooth audio (Pioneer Smart Sync ready), and new speakers.
-Gas line prepared for fridge (splitter needed to enable)
Honest Points:
-Structurally sound underneath – clean chassis, sills and floor
-Cosmetic rust spots in typical places (non-structural), easily addressed with sanding/ filler if desired
-Interior is usable but dated – refreshed where needed, but original in most places (some age marks, missing buttons on bed)
-Engine noise at high revs (normal for AEY in T25 — baffles or soundproofing can help if desired)
Features and equipment:
-Gas heater (working, £500 value)
-12V, 230V, and gas-capable fridge (12V and mains currently connected)
-Split-charge leisure battery system
-All interior electrics functional
-Bluetooth stereo setup (Pioneer Smart Sync compatible)
-Mercedes AMG alloy wheels
-Private Numberplate (£700-£1200)
This van has had regular use, frequent maintenance, and thousands spent making it reliable. She’s not a “barn-find beauty,” but far better: she’s dependable, road-proven, and ready to be enjoyed or gradually restored.
Viewings in West Yorkshire. Delivery possible by discussion. I bought Willow two years ago after hunting for a T25 that was more than just shiny paint and rust underneath. I wanted something mechanically sorted, already used for real travel, a van I could trust on a long road trip, not just run to a campsite 20 miles away.
Since owning her, I’ve focused entirely on making her reliable, drivable, and practical, not pretty. The engine conversion to the AEY 1. 9D gives her more torque and reliability than the original 1. 6. The long-ratio DK gearbox pairs perfectly, allowing for smooth motorway speeds and better fuel economy. On my 4, 500-mile Europe trip, she averaged over 33 MPG — often better — and never overheated, struggled, or failed. I had spare parts and never once opened the toolbox.
What makes Willow special is her balance of function, charm, and mechanical honesty. She’s a working classic, a usable vehicle that’s already proven herself on a major tour. You can drive her today without needing months of work or restoration prep. She’s dry underneath, solid where it matters, and every essential system is working: fridge, lights, heater, brakes, steering, engine, gearbox - all spot on.
My favourite thing about this van is her feel on the road. T25s can be clunky, noisy, and underpowered but not Willow. With the upgraded drivetrain, she climbs hills better than most lorries and handles confidently. She's not silent, but she sounds like she means business.
She also has loads of little practical touches that make a real difference for first-time owners:
-Manual idle adjuster by the dash
-Printed user guide with startup tips, heater settings, power management, and more
-Lockbox, ramps, table leg, jack, grip boards and other useful spares stored onboard
I’ve put a huge amount of thought into how to make her easy to use and maintain. I’ve documented all the quirks so the next owner isn’t guessing something I wish I had when I bought her.
Whether you want a solid touring van or a classic base for future restoration, Willow is a rare find in that she’s mechanically ready and has already been proven on the road.
She’s got honest wear, plenty of life, and a lot of character - the kind you don’t find in freshly painted, showroom-polished campers. If you want a van you can enjoy now and slowly restore on your own terms, she’s ideal.
I’ll be genuinely sad to see her go, but I’d love for her to continue her adventures with someone who appreciates how rare a van like this really is.
