Restoration
From the very beginning, our goal was simple: preserve the heart and soul of this iconic camper.
Restoring one of these campers isn’t just a project—it’s a journey back in time. With so few of these rare campers left in the world, every detail mattered. Bringing one back to life was all about honoring the original design while carefully upgrading where it counted.
We sourced original parts whenever possible, and when we couldn’t, we crafted our own. From the classic interior fittings to the distinctive exterior features, we focused on preserving what made the PaCoMobil campers so unique.
Artisans, experts and neighbors
To make this restoration a reality, we partnered with some of the best in the business. Vintage air-cooled VW specialists, camper restoration experts, and a top-tier body and paint shop all worked together to ensure every detail stayed true to the camper’s heritage. The engine, a newly built Type 4 2056cc with dual Weber 44mm carbs and 44 x 38mm valves, was designed to give her some serious power while keeping that classic feel. The interior cage, aluminum siding, and body all needed attention. With care and precision, we restored the iconic shape, reinforcing it for both safety and durability.
When it came to the interior, that’s when we rolled up our sleeves and got our hands dirty. Over nine months, we painstakingly recreated the original interior by hand. From the cozy seating and bunk bed to the retro kitchenette, we stayed true to the 1970s charm. Of course, we also added a few modern upgrades, like new wiring and discreet solar panels, so the camper is fully equipped for today’s adventures.
The frame and shell being stripped down.
The frame and shell after being rebuilt.
​This project wouldn’t have been possible without the help of our amazing friends and neighbors. Not knowing much about building campers ourselves, we relied heavily on the expertise of our camper build expert, Chris, who guided us through each step. Max handled the electrical system, and Diego, our handyman friend, was there every Saturday to cut, bend, and fit whatever was needed. Mike was an absolute lifesaver—he opened up his basement workshop and shared his decades of woodworking experience, patiently teaching us how to use tools we’d never even seen before.
​But that’s just the beginning. Bryan found the Mexibus for sale and patiently put up with our countless visits, calls, and questions during the restoration. Jackie gave us endless encouragement and understanding throughout. Rob took on the crucial welding work. Victor built the futon. My mom lovingly crafted the pillows and curtains. Linda drove 400 miles to deliver the windows. And Al made a stunning cabinet door for the bathroom. Everyone jumped in, offering their time, skills, and support.
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Was it easy or pretty? Not quite. But restoring this PaCoMobil camper has been a true labor of love, made possible by a community of friends and experts who share our passion for keeping this incredible piece of history on the road.
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1974 Volkswagen Type 2 Bus
The original skylight was replaced by two skylights with fans.
We took the paint back to original 1974 colors--Neptune Blue & Atlas White
The window in the bunk is my favorite part of the camper. We love to park at the beach and watch people surf from up here.
The windows at the dining nook provide 270 degree views.
The fuel fill was originally below the camper shell. Fuel would leak down the side of the camper. No bueno. We relocated the fill upwards about a foot. Now gas stays in the tank.
These vents are unique to the PaCoMobil. They are usually on the top half of a VW Bus.
Equipped with a warm shower off the back.
For safety, we moved the propane tank outside the camper. It was originally in the kitchen.
The finished product
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