4.6 KiB
+++ date = "2022-06-30" title = "Volkswagen Golf III Cabrio (1994)" tags = ["cars","volkswagen","golf", "cabrio"] categories = ["Cars"] summary = "And now for something completely different: I'm going to fix up 1994 Volkswagen Golf III Cabrio at home." +++
Any of my friends or co-workers will tell you I'm a nerd. I like technical stuff. To get outside more, I decided my next technical challenge should be something that I do outdoors. The plan to convert a van into a camper was quickly dropped as I'm apparently the only person in the family who enjoys camping. I soon found that older Volkswagen Golf cars can be found for cheap, but will need work: precesily what I'm looking for.
(There are jack stands under the car, it's not resting on the wheel, thanks for asking)
The car
- Volkswagen Golf III (Mk3) Cabrio
- Built in Osnabrück, Germany in 1994
- 1.8L Petrol engine (66KW, 90hp)
- Manual 5 speed gearbox
- Hand-operated soft top
- 17" Alloy wheels
- 200k kilometers (±124 miles) on the clock
The problems
With a car of this vintage you can expect things to be wrong with it. I try to keep a complete list of issues I find, when I fixed them and what the repair cost.
Most of the repairs and maintenance I will do myself. I either already have the proper tools or want to buy them anyway. I bought a Haynes VW Golf Repair Manual and watched a metric ton of Chrisfix Youtube videos. Also, I have some friendly mechanics in my network that I can ask for help if need be.
I cannot do everything myself because I lack the proper training or tools. Things like replacing tires, wheel alignment, and validating the exhaust system is airtight. I will also bring the car to my local mechanic for the required periodical vehicle inspection. This means they will check if the suspension, brakes, and exhaust are functioning correctly (after I've had my hands all over them).
Overall
{{< begin-task-list >}}
- Pass mandatory yearly vehicle inspection in the Netherlands (APK)1
Exhaust system
{{< begin-task-list >}}
- ‼︎ Middle muffler leaking; patched hole with Exhaust Putty.
- ‼︎ End muffler rusted and leaking; replaced. €55
- ‼︎ Have exhaust checked during APK1, which may result in more repairs to pipes or catalytic converter
- Replace front pipe (from manifold to catalytic converter). It's okay now, but is starting to deteriorate.
Engine and cooling
{{< begin-task-list >}}
- ‼︎ Fuel hose going into Mono Motronic is leaking; tightened loose hose clamp
- Verify battery voltage; all good
- Verify battery charging voltage / alternator function; all good
- Clutch is almost end-of-life; replace
- Change oil and oil filter
- O-ring on the coolant flange on the engine block is leaking; replace flange
- Replace coolant reservoir and change coolant
- Replace spark plugs
- Replace air intake filter
Suspension and brakes
{{< begin-task-list >}}
- ‼︎ Rear shock absorbers are dead; replaced
- ‼︎ Front shock absorvers are dead; replaced
- ‼︎ Rear brakes are rusty and old; replaced
- ‼︎ Front brakes are rusty and old; replaced
- ‼︎ Flush brake fluid (after replacing brakes)
- ‼︎ Replace old and worn tires; will be fixed by mechanic during APK1
- Get a wheel alignment done; appointment scheduled
- Check what's up with ABS. It's not mandatory for a car of this vintage, but I'd be nice to figure out what's going on.
Bodywork
{{< begin-task-list >}}
- ‼︎ Check for problematic rust; none found
- ‼︎ Replace worn-out gas cylinders for boot; replaced
- Fix key-locking mechanism driver side
- Check functioning of passenger side electric window
- Check and repair rear electric windows
- Align wipers correctly
- ‼︎ Replace wipers
- Check spring on hood locking mechanism
- Fix power steering
- Fix damaged light control height adjust
- Repair small scratches and rust spots
- Clean and polish all paint
Miscellaneous
{{< begin-task-list >}}
- Check speakers and wiring
- Check why FM reception sucks
- Install a proper radio, maybe an original VW Beta/Gamma unit?
- Clean HVAC ducts
- Replace interior filter
- Clean seats
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APK, Algemene Periodieke Keuring Dutch periodical vehicle safety, roadworthyness and exhaust emissions inspection ↩︎