WARNING.— The person in whose name this vehicle is displayed may or may not be the current owner of the vehicle. Readers are warned, therefore, that this entry is not proof of ownership.
Details
- Registration Mark
- ZV 7766
- (a) Type:
- Type 181
- (b) Year:
- 1972
- (c) Colour:
- Army Green
- (d) Paint code:
- Matt Green
- (e) Engine CCs:
- 1600
History
- (a) Country of origin:
- Germany
- (b) County first reg'd:
- Dublin
- (c) Current or last known location:
- Kildare
Model information
Trekker and Type 181
Info
This awesome looking Trekker now calls Kildare home but before it made the journey to its new home we caught up with its past owner and asked him about his fun Volkswagen.
What is it? That’s what everyone asks me! It’s the ultimate fun summer motoring is what I think! It’s a 1972 VW Type 181 or Trekker and appeals to not only a Volkswagen enthusiast but a military vehicle enthusiast and of course to the person who wants to have the coolest beach cruiser in Ireland!
Originally LHD, I bought it in 2014 and had it professionally converted to RHD. There is an adjustable front beam, it’s lowered one spline at the rear and the 1300cc engine is 100% reliable. It’s running the original reduction boxes so it takes a bit of getting used to if you’ve never driven one before.
In 2020 the Trekker got new discs & pads. I fitted a Budweiser beer tap on top of the EMPI Trigger Shifter and there is also a 3 spoke sports steering wheel. The original army spec interior is in excellent original condition.
Externally, there are 2 flagpoles on the army spec nudge bar. I’ve ran it with two different set of wheels which gave two very different look; the original rims with chunky off-road tyres and the 5 spoke Radars that are on it now.
The original front wing was dented when I got it so I sourced a very good original wing but I have to admit, I really like the battered, used look! The engine lid has a little rust at the bottom so rather than repair I sourced an excellent original one.
Both the convertible frame & outer cover are perfect and with the doors closed and the side windows slotted into place it’s reasonably wind and rain tight.
Driving this in the summer is when it comes into its own. Roll the roof back, fold the windscreen down, remove the side screens, doors and this Trekker becomes the ultimate fun in the sun summer cruiser, and the best part is the legendary VW reliability. It’s so unique and interesting but fun to drive. I’ll miss it when it’s gone but it’s off to a new home where the owner is looking forward to using it in the summer months with his children who I know will love it.
Additional Photos
