The Volkswagen T3 Doka Project Episode 1

The 1998 T3 Doka originally came with a 1700cc diesel and a 4-speed gear box. This one was originally a German motorway maintenance vehicle, hence it being orange and the fact that it came with a night-heater (Erbrspacher) on it which would have been an extra. It was sold when it was 4 years old and exported to Southern Spain. Here it was used as a builder’s truck for many years until eventually being just parked up in a very tatty condition until 2016 when Steve purchased it. What was left of the interior was ripped out and, on the outside, we stripped off any remaining paint, knocking out lots of dents in just about every single panel, especially the bed. But fortunately, it was completely rust free. The original 1700cc engine had also been replaced at some time in the past with a very tired and smoky 1600cc golf engine. We completely refurbished the interior, fitting new head lining, re-covering the seats amongst many other things including fitting matching orange seat belts. We had the exterior repainted to a very high standard in its original colour. New wheels, tyres and brakes were also fitted to get it back on the road and we had a lovely wooden insert made for the bed. Steve used the Doka on and off in this condition for about 3 years until the engine started to leak as much oil as it consumed and really let this beautiful wagon down. We had known all along we would need a new engine in it, however, the Doka got left in “storage” while we got on with other projects. (We are easily distracted!)
At the beginning of this year, 2022, we decided to complete the intended mechanical upgrades, engine, gearbox and air-conditioning and get it comfortable enough to be a daily user.
We found a very nice 1900cc golf engine which is being rebuilt and a good 5 speed gearbox both of which should make quite a difference to the drive. We then got to work on the truck itself, whipping the old engine and gearbox out, as well as the night-heater, not really needed for Southern Spain, to make way for the air-conditioning system, which is definitely needed for Southern Spain.
We hope you enjoy this video of the job so far because we are loving doing up this Doka, and, before anyone asks, NO, it is not for sale, this is a keeper!
We would love to hear any comments or suggestions from any of you!
And don´t forget to subscribe for more updates on this and other projects.
#VolkswagenT3Doka
#T3Doka
#VolkswagenDoka
#Wdoka

[@DaveBrinkmann-dz7zs]

Nice doka ❤

[@zentecgarage]

Yes we are very happy with it, in fact Steve has decided to keep it

[@blakkno666]

At least Steve fits in that!

[@zentecgarage]

Only just🤣🤣😎

[@blakkno666]

You could fit the piaggio in the back of that so when it breaks down (as vw's do 😂) you're not stranded in the bloody desert! 🤣🤣🤣

[@zentecgarage]

Good idea🤣🤣🤣