1976 saw VWSA replacing the Fleetline at the bottom of its bus range with the later Brazilian bay/split hybrid. The bay/splits were known simply as "1600" or "Brasilia" (as I have seen it on some aftermarket parts lists). These were assembled and sold in SA from 76-78. They were mechanically a splittie, except they had 72-78 taillights and a bay front grafted on to the splittie rear body. They had reduction gearbox transmissions, but with double-jointed axles, with universal joints instead of CVs.
Interpreting Fleetline VIN plates The VIN plate is found on the bulkhead behind the driver’s seat. Typical Fleetline VIN plate layout: 214B EA 001 XXXX X-XXXX/XX/67 2051 XXX XXX Where: 214B = Panelvan RHD, Brazilian; 234B = Kombi RHD, Brazilian; 264B = pick-up RHD, Brazilian EA = ?? 001 = ?? (This number is the same on all Fleetlines) XXXX = sequential production number Thenumbers on the middle line and their pattern vary, but the last numberis always 67, which has led many Fleetline owners to incorrectly assumetheir buses are 1967s. The bottom line is the VIN, where: 2 = Type 2 0 = ?? 5 = 1975 1 = panelvan, 3 = Kombi, 6 = pick-up XXX XXX = sequential production number
Hi there! I have one of these buses, they are awesome but a nightmare to find parts for. Are there many things in them that are not bay or split or would I have to go through every single bit on the van, look at it and compare it to a parts catalogue to find out? I'm replacing the engine but keeping the gearbox etc. I guess what I'm asking is: is there a full breakdown of what is actually in this bus?! Many thanks, Ed
Strangely at work we have a South African who did his apprenticeship at VW building buses and Beetles back in the day... claims unfortunately he forgot all of it.
