In this episode, we give tips on buying a classic car or an old camping vehicle.
Our guest Jan Kuckertz is himself a long-time camper and classic car enthusiast, currently driving around in an old Hymer treasure for which he recently received the H license plate. Jan is a trained specialist in caravan technology and has set up his own small business in this field as a sideline. With Kucki’s Camper Garage, he helps motorhome and caravan owners with minor and major installations or ailments. Whether it’s a new solar system, a dripping tap or moisture damage – we can say from our own experience that Jan knows exactly what he’s doing. And the best thing about it: you don’t even have to go anywhere, because Jan will come and take care of repairs, installation or service at your home or on the campsite.
We asked him these and many other questions:
- How did you get your H license plate?
- What would you recommend to people who also want to get an H license plate – what do they need to look out for?
- What are the most common problems with oldies?
- What should you consider when buying a classic car or an older vehicle?
- Does buying an old camper or vintage car make sense at all for people with less manual skills?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of a classic car or an H license plate?
- What do you need to know and observe when carrying out repairs or conversions?
- Where can I get spare parts?
- Is it possible to lose an H license plate?
- etc.
Basic equipment for your toolbox
- Screwdriver set (Phillips, Torx, slotted), e.g. from Amazon Basics
- Hammer (from approx. 250g), a normal locksmith’s hammer is sufficient here.
- Socket wrench set from size 7mm-19mm (ideally a case with several parts)
e.g. HÖGERT HT1R444 tool case set - Scissors
- Cutter knife + blades, e.g. in a set from Würth
- Pliers (side cutters, combination pliers, water pump pliers, needle nose pliers), e.g. in this practical set of 4
- Cartridge press, e.g. from Wolfcraft
- Hand lamp (flashlight)
- Possibly cordless screwdriver + battery + charger (incl. bits and drill bit set), e.g. the 12V cordless screwdriver set from Bosch Professional
- Mulitmeter (for those who are confident with electrics, also under the instruction of a professional), e.g. from Kaiweets
- Also important: on-board tools for punctures (jack, torque wrench with suitable sockets, wheel nut wrench, compressor if necessary, etc.).
Material for emergency repairs
- Cable ties
- Fabric adhesive tape (also duct tape) 50mm wide, e.g. 50 meters from 3M
- Large garbage bags (also suitable for covering leaking roof hoods)
- Wood or sheet metal screw set
- Adhesive sealant cartridge, e.g. Sika
- Permanently elastic sealing compound, e.g. from Dekaseal
- Silicone remover, e.g. as a spray from STC
- Hose clamps 8-16mm, e.g. in a set of 10 made of stainless steel
- Hose connector 10mm (most widely used), e.g. in a set with plastic I, Y and T connections
- Replacement pump/ internal tank pump
- Lubricant e.g. the “camper cure-all” WD40
- Replacement bulbs (also for base vehicle)
Further links
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