VW Camper Restoration & Respray: Classic Type 2 Bay Window

Complete Paint Repair Solutions (C.P.R.S) in Grimsby recently completed a detailed restoration and respray project on a classic Volkswagen Type 2 Bay Window camper van.

This early 1970s VW camper arrived with areas of age-related wear, corrosion and bodywork deterioration that needed careful repair before the vehicle could be professionally refinished. As a much-loved classic, the aim was not only to improve the vehicle’s appearance, but also to restore key sections of the bodywork properly, helping protect the vehicle for years to come.

Classic VW Camper Body Restoration Process

The Volkswagen Type 2 is an instantly recognisable classic, known for its distinctive shape, character and nostalgic appeal. However, older vehicles often require more than cosmetic paintwork, especially when rust has affected lower panels, corners, joins and door shuts.

For this project, the C.P.R.S team carried out a full body restoration process, including structural bodywork repairs, panel replacement, surface preparation and a professional respray in a fresh two-tone blue and white finish.

Bodywork & Rust Repair

Before any paintwork could begin, the camper was carefully inspected to identify areas that required repair or replacement.

The work included:

• Fitting a new right rear corner
• Replacing the rear cross member
• Welding in a new left quarter lower panel
• Repairing and refinishing all door shuts
• Addressing visible corrosion and worn bodywork areas
• Preparing the body for a clean and long-lasting painted finish

These repairs were an important part of the restoration process, helping to strengthen the camper’s bodywork and create a solid foundation for the final respray.

Surface Preparation & Component Removal

Preparation is one of the most important stages in any classic vehicle restoration. To achieve a high-quality finish, key components were removed where required, allowing the team to access areas that would otherwise be difficult to prepare and paint correctly.

The vehicle was then carefully sanded, repaired, aligned and prepared for paint. This stage helped ensure the new finish would not only look smooth and even, but also properly bond to the restored panels.

Particular attention was given to panel edges, joins, shut lines and previously repaired sections to ensure the finished camper retained a clean, consistent appearance from every angle.

Painting & Professional Respray

Once the bodywork repairs and surface preparation were complete, the VW camper was professionally colour matched to the original bright blue and white colour scheme.

The paintwork was completed with care to achieve a smooth, glossy and durable finish across the body panels, doors, rear section, front panel and repaired areas.

The Final Result: A Fresh New Look for a Classic Camper

The completed Volkswagen Type 2 Bay Window camper now has a refreshed and restored appearance. More importantly, the bodywork repairs beneath the finish mean the camper has been given the attention it needed before repainting.

From the new rear corner and rear cross member to the welded lower quarter panel and refinished door shuts, this project highlights the importance of proper preparation in classic vehicle restoration.

Have a classic camper that needs the same care?

Whether it’s a Bay Window, Split Screen, or any other classic camper, CPRS Grimsby specialises in proper structural repair and high-quality refinishing. Get in touch for a free, no-obligation assessment or request a quote to discuss your project.